Wine – 2004 Quinta do Crasto Douro Reserva Old Vines
I’ve always really liked Portuguese reds… why I don’t drink more of them is just a game of numbers. It’s that “so many wines, so little time” thing. Wines like this make it clear I should really pay closer attention.
I’ve had it open a few hours and wow. It’s deep, dark and, while it’s very Old World, shows great deep and dark fruit with a super-sexy syrupy edge and a long, spicy finish.
It’s balanced and very drinkable now, yet a bit hot due to it’s young age (and 14.5% booze) – put this away for a couple of years and see it really hit its stride.
The Wine Spectator gave it a very health 93-point rating, describing it as, “A ripe, full-bodied red packed with dark fruity flavors as well as plenty of paprika. Powerful, with a dense core of spicy elements that follow through to the long, cream-filled finish.” Yep. I agree.
$33.95 at LDB stores here in BC.