The 2003 TOURIGA NACIONAL is on par with the interesting 2005 reviewed recently. It has focus and precision, and an intense tannic finish with serious grip on the end. It is approachable now, but best held for a little while longer. The fruit is delicious and the acidity gives it a sunny demeanor. Drink 2009-2015. Owner Luis Lourenco is the genial owner of this well known estate. Talented winemaker Rui Reguina helps things along as well. I think this estate is going to get better and better. Note that Luis bought Quinta das Maias in 1997. The wines are made at Roques by the same team and even the bottles are similar—so for convenience, I keep everything together here, treating Maias essentially as a different vineyard for all practical purposes.Importer: Wineworth, LLC; Bellevue, WA; tel: (425) 747-9241.

One of a range of varietal wines from top Dao producer Quinta dos Roques, this takes Portugal’s most famous grape and turns it into a firmly tannic, almost mineral wine. It has big, black juicy fruit and finely balanced acidity.——R.V.(3/1/2007)—— 89