The 2011 Touriga Nacional was sourced from two plots, each of which was fermented separately. The southern plot was aged in medium toast, new French oak for 16 months. The northern plot was aged in light toast, new French oak for 18 months. The final blend was a barrel selection between the two. It comes in at 14.5% alcohol. As I often say, this may be the best performance yet with this bottling. For me, I want Touriga that is graceful in the mid-palate (compare the burlier Tinta Roriz here), built to age, and crisp and aromatic, without going overboard. This seems to handle all of the above, although #2, ageworthiness, isn’t likely to imitate the stern and powerful products we often see in Dao. Its only flaw is temporary – a bit too much oak showing just now. That was pretty much cured simply by holding it until the next day. A few years of cellaring should resolve that easily. It feels full in the mouth on first attack, and then becomes remarkably graceful. Harmonious and impeccably balanced, it has a fresh feel, with well-integrated tannins and balanced aromatics, even though it is beautifully fragrant. It has none of the nose-wrinkling qualities Touriga can get if it goes overboard or becomes overripe and a bit funky. It is just floral and delightful. With some 3 hours of aeration, it woke up and showed wonderfully sensual expressiveness. I had some early reservations. That ended them. It was lovely, fresh and crisp the next day as well. There were 9,300 bottles produced. Drink 2016-2027.
As nice as Crasto’s harmonious and supple 2010s were, I think most will find that the 2011s are, at least, a step up. It may, in fact, be the best set of wines that I’ve ever seen from Crasto. That’s not completely surprising, if you read my prior comments on the stature of this vintage in the article accompanying the tasting notes from Issue 210. (http://erobertparker.com/members/winedata/articles/article797.asp) There is more intensity this year than last, and a bit more lift to the wines. Yet, they always maintain their balance, too. At the upper end, to be sure, the prices are pretty pricey, but there is value to be had here as well, with the lower-level wines, right down to the entry-level Flor.
Importer: Broadbent Selections, Richmond, VA; (804) 353-1843.
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