Touriga Nacional famous Portuguese grape

Every wine-growing region has its crown jewels, the grape varieties that epitomise its terroir and the spirit of its people. In Portugal, one such jewel is the Touriga Nacional. Although it may not enjoy the global renown of Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir, Touriga Nacional is revered within Portugal and admired by connoisseurs across the globe. In this comprehensive blog post, we delve deeper into the world of this magnificent grape, exploring its origins, growing characteristics, and some standout wines and producers that champion this variety.

The roots of the Touriga Nacional grape lie in the northern Dão region of Portugal, where it has been cultivated for centuries. The name itself is thought to originate from 'Touriga,' a reference to the Tower of the Knights Templar in Tomar, a significant historical region in Portugal.

The grape has had an intriguing journey over the centuries. In the late 19th century, it was nearly eradicated when the phylloxera plague devastated Europe's vineyards. However, it was saved from extinction due to its inherent resistance to the disease and the concerted efforts of dedicated Portuguese viticulturists.

Throughout the 20th century, Touriga Nacional fell out of favour because of its low yield compared to other varietals. But a resurgence occurred in the late 1980s and 1990s, driven by a greater focus on quality over quantity. Today, it's a centrepiece in the wine scenes of the Dão and Douro regions and continues to rise in global recognition.

Yield and Growing

Touriga Nacional is a high-quality, low-yielding variety. It is known for its small, dense bunches of thick-skinned berries, which contribute to the concentration and intensity of the wines they produce. The grape thrives best in dry, warm conditions and is resistant to many common vine diseases. It's a robust vine, adaptable to various soil types, but it prefers schistous and granitic terrains typical of Dão and Douro.

Despite its hardiness, growing Touriga Nacional is not without challenges. Its tendency for low yields can make it less attractive economically. However, it rewards the winemakers' patience and dedication with deeply coloured, aromatic, and structured wines. The grape's low yield is often seen as a blessing in disguise, as it naturally limits production, thereby ensuring that only the most dedicated and passionate winemakers engage with it.

The Quintessential Touriga Nacional Wines You Must Try

Quinta do Vallado Touriga Nacional Douro

Quinta do Vallado, one of the oldest estates in Douro, crafts this 100% Touriga Nacional wine that is a beautiful expression of the grape's potential. It presents complex layers of dark fruit, spices, and a balanced acidity. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, adding a layer of complexity and sophistication.

Casa Ferreirinha Quinta da Leda Douro

This winery, with its rich history dating back to the 18th century, creates a blend dominated by Touriga Nacional. Quinta da Leda shows off the structure and depth that Touriga Nacional brings, filled with notes of blackberries, violets, and spice, supported by firm tannins. The wine is a testament to the grape's versatility and complexity.

Quinta da Romaneira Reserva Douro

In this blend where Touriga Nacional is the star, the Quinta da Romaneira Reserva showcases the elegance and power of this grape. Expect a beautiful balance between ripe red fruits and the spice and herbal characteristics that Touriga Nacional can express. The wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, which adds to its complexity and ageing potential.

Niepoort Batuta Douro

While not a single-varietal wine, Touriga Nacional makes up a significant proportion of the blend. Batuta is a prime example of Dirk Niepoort's innovative approach to winemaking in the Douro region, showcasing the complexity, elegance, and ageing potential of these wines. The wine undergoes extended maceration and is aged in French oak barrels for up to 20 months.

Producers Championing Touriga Nacional

Quinta do Crasto

Situated in the heart of the Douro Valley, Quinta do Crasto has been family-owned for over a century. They use Touriga Nacional extensively in their blends and also produce a varietal wine that showcases the grape's robust and complex profile. Their commitment to quality over quantity has made them a benchmark in the industry.

Casa Ferreirinha

Known for pioneering the production of high-quality, non-fortified Douro wines, Casa Ferreirinha uses Touriga Nacional in many of its premium and super-premium wines, revealing the grape's enormous potential. Their wines are often cited in international competitions, further elevating the status of Touriga Nacional.

Quinta do Vallado

Established in 1716, this historic estate has been at the forefront of the Douro's winemaking revolution. Their 100% Touriga Nacional is a testament to the grape's power and grace. The estate is also involved in sustainable viticulture, ensuring that their wines are not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.

The Future is Bright for Touriga Nacional

The Touriga Nacional grape is indeed a fascinating part of Portugal's wine heritage. Despite its challenges, it creates some truly exceptional and distinctive wines that any wine enthusiast should experience. As Portugal's wine industry continues to thrive, the future looks bright for Touriga Nacional. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a casual wine drinker, this grape variety offers a unique lens through which to explore the richness of Portuguese viticulture. So the next time you find yourself perusing a wine list or strolling through a vineyard, don't overlook this unsung hero of the Portuguese wine world.

The Touriga Nacional grape is more than just a variety; it's a symbol of Portugal's resilience, history, and commitment to quality. Its journey from near-extinction to becoming the cornerstone of some of Portugal's most celebrated wines is a story worth telling and tasting. So, raise a glass to Touriga Nacional, the unsung hero in the vineyard, and a rising star in the world of wine.

Touriga Nacional: A Gem in the Crown of Portuguese Viticulture