Wine Year
The year 2020 was extremely demanding, not only due to the global pandemic, but also due to the very harsh weather conditions, presenting itself as a hot and dry year during the crucial period of grape ripening. This was the warmest winter since 2005, but high rainfall was recorded, especially in December, both at Quinta da Cabreira (Douro Superior) and Quinta do Crasto (Cima Corgo). The months of March to June were also accompanied by high rainfall and high temperatures, which led to an early budbreak, about ten days earlier than usual. During this period there was greater pressure due to the possibility of diseases appearing in the vineyard, and permanent and very strict monitoring by the viticulture team is essential to avoid possible outbreaks of infection. July and August were hot months, but fortunately there was some availability of water in the soil that ensured the correct ripening of the grapes. However, it was essential not to miss the optimal harvest point in order to avoid the threat of grape dehydration. The harvest began on 17 August and ended on 25 September. It was a harvest of lower production with the vines presenting smaller bunches and
Grapes of smaller diameter, with an excellent ratio between the skin and the pulp, and consequently an excellent concentration. A harvest marked by the Covid-19 pandemic but, with all the professionalism and dedication of the Quinta do Crasto team, gave rise to the production of white wines with excellent balance, freshness and aromatic definition and very complete red wines, with very expressive fruit, seductive texture and excellent persistence.
Vinification
The grapes, harvested and transported in 22 kg boxes, were subjected to rigorous sorting at the entrance to the winery. They were then destemmed, lightly crushed and transferred to stainless steel fermentation vats with temperature control, where they fermented for 4 days with skin maceration and very light extraction. They were then pressed into barrels where they finished fermentation.
Aging
For 12 months in used French oak barrels.
Tasting Notes
Garnet in colour, it has expressive notes of red fruits on the nose, in perfect harmony with soft aromas of forest and fine spice. In the mouth it starts in an engaging way, evolving into a wine of excellent volume and fine texture. A wine that demonstrates all the freshness and elegance of the Tinta Francisca and Touriga Nacional grape varieties, when planted at an altitude of 430 meters and northern exposure. A seductive wine that ends with excellent freshness and elegance
Endnotes
Designation of Origin: Douro
Country: Portugal
Producer: Quinta do Crasto
Winemaker: Manuel Lobo
Grape Varieties: 70% Tinta Francisca; 30% Touriga Nacional
Age of the vines: 16 years
Altitude: 430 m
Total Acidity: 5.2 gr/L
pH: 3.45
Consumption Temperature: 16-18º
Suitable for Vegans
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