General Description: Touriga Nacional is considered one of Portugal’s premier grape varieties, key to the production of high-quality Port wines and increasingly celebrated for its role in still red wines, especially from the Douro Valley and Dão regions. Known for its small berries and low yields, Touriga Nacional contributes intense concentration, deep colour, and complex aromatics to wines. It is celebrated for its balance of tannins, acidity, and alcohol, with a flavour profile rich in dark fruits, floral notes, and often a hint of spice. Despite its association with Portugal, the grape is also gaining traction in other wine-producing countries, appreciated for its quality and depth.
Primary Flavours:
- Blackcurrant
- Blueberry
- Violet
- Licorice
- Herbal notes
- Spice
Taste Profile:
- Sweet-Dry: Dry
- Body: Full body
- Tannins: High
- Acidity: Medium to high
- ABV range: Typically between 13% to 14.5%
Handling: Touriga Nacional wines, given their structure and complexity, benefit from decanting to allow the flavours and aromas to fully express. They are best served at a temperature of around 16°C to 18°C. The grape’s robust tannins and acidity lend it well to ageing, with top-quality examples showing potential to develop further complexity and smoothness over many years.
Food Pairing Suggestions: The full-bodied nature and tannic structure of Touriga Nacional make it an excellent match for rich and flavourful meats, including beef, lamb, and game. It pairs well with dishes that feature robust herbs and spices, offering a counterbalance to the savoury and umami flavours. The wine’s floral and fruit notes can also complement dishes with black fruit sauces or reductions. For cheese pairings, aged hard cheeses that can stand up to the wine’s intensity are ideal choices.