Quinta do Crasto mini-vertical
Will's house, Forest Hill, London
Tasted Saturday, February 18, 2012 by cooberp with 368 views
Introduction
I was interested to compare and contrast two wines from this well-regarded Portuguese producer. The rare (only a couple hundred cases produced) single-vineyard 2001 Maria Teresa won Decanter's gold medal for Portuguese wines at its World Wine Awards, and the 2004 Old Vines Reserva is widely cited as an excellent value. I liked both, but not at the prices I paid to get them.
2001 Quinta do Crasto Douro Vinha Maria Teresa 90 Points
Portugal, Douro
Dark crimson. Clearly a warm-climate wine--very full nose of blackberry and plum with a hint of palpable alcohol. But it is kept in check on the palate by a strong acidic backbone. Lovely soft mouthfeel, not much tannin present at this stage. Still primary, can go a bit further. Not much of a finish, and turns slightly sour with air. Overpriced.
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2004 Quinta do Crasto Douro Reserva Old Vines 88 Points
Portugal, Douro
Dark crimson. Quite similar to the 2001 Quinta do Crasto Vinha Maria Teresa poured alongside, showing dark fruit and some heat, but with a different structure--more tannin, less acidity--and a less suave texture. With air it turn slightly (but pleasantly) sweet and porty, reflecting its country of origin.
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