Portuguese Grapes
Touriga Nacional
Touriga Nacional is considered to be Portugal's finest red wine grape.
The small, dark grape plays an important part in the production of Port Wine.
It is also used for red wine production in Douro and Dão.
Touriga Nacional gives body to wine, high tannins, and strong flavors of black fruit.
Touriga Nacional Flavors
Dark Berries, Black Fruit, and Plum are typical Touriga Nacional flavors.
Herbs. Spices. Mint. Warm aftertaste. Chocolate. Mocha.
 Black Cherry |
 Blueberry |
 Blackberry |
 Plum |
 Herbs |
 Spices |
 Pepper |
 Mint |
Tertiary Flavors from Aging:
 Vanilla |
 Toast |
 Chocolate |
 Leather |
Touriga Nacional Profile
Touriga Nacional wines are full-bodied with deep fruit flavors, soft tannins, and good acidity:
| BODY: | Full |
| TANNINS: | Medium Plus |
| FRUIT: | Medium - High |
| ACIDITY: | Medium - High |
| ALCOHOL: | 13-15% ABV |
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Serving temperature: 16-17°C (61-63°F) |
Touriga Nacional Food Pairing
Touriga Nacional pairs best with Gilled, Braised, or Roasted Meat.
 Tapas |
 Stew |
 Mushroom |
 Hamburger |
 Chicken |
 Duck |
 Rabbit |
 Pork |
 Lamb |
 Veal |
 Wild Boar |
 Venison |
Excellent Pairings
Beef Stew. Mushrooms.
Barbeque. Hamburger. Meatloaf.
Grilled Beef. Grilled Lamb. Grilled Chicken.
Caça (Game). Veado (Venison).
Javali (Wild Boar). Coelho (Rabbit).
Cheeses
Strong Cheese. Smoked Cheese.
Portuguese Specialities:
Cabrito Assado (Roasted Goat).
Bacalao com Natas (Bacalao with Potatoes).
The Ideal Glass for Touriga Nacional
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The Bordeaux Glass was designed for enjoying fuller-bodied, tannic red wines. They are taller than other red wine glasses, and has a slimmer bowl. The tall size allows the bouquet of the wine to develop, smooth out rough edges, play down tannins, and allow the wine to achieve balance. The slimmer bowl directs the wine to the back of your mouth for a maximum taste. |
