At a glance

Producer

Willow Lantern

Region

Paso Robles, California, USA

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30 - $45 per 750ml bottle (estimate based on Paso Robles boutique producers and similar single-varietal Touriga Nacional pricing on Wine-Searcher and merchant websites)

Tasting profile

Ripe dark berry fruits (blackberry, black plum), notes of violet and dried herbs, with hints of leather and cigar box emerging. Medium to full-bodied mouthfeel with smooth tannins and lingering mineral finish.

Evolution: Over the next 3-5 years, expect development of more pronounced tertiary aromas such as forest floor, truffle, and earthiness while fruit intensity gently recedes.

At peak: At peak, the wine delivers a complex, layered experience balancing fruit, savory, and spice nuances with harmonious texture.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to moderate-high acidity typical of Paso Robles reds aiding freshness and aging

Tannins

Medium to firm tannins, well integrated but still present; resolved from youthful astringency

Alcohol

Likely moderate to moderately high (~14-14.5% ABV), balanced integration consistent with warm climate Touriga

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage; with proper cellaring, the wine can maintain good drinking condition through mid to late 2020s

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2028

Optimal window

2020 to 2030

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window; may benefit from short term additional aging

Current condition

The 2011 vintage is now mature with integrated tannins; some tertiary notes likely developing with a fruit profile that remains well defined.

Peak drinking window aligns with full integration of tannins and development of tertiary flavor complexity while sufficient acidity maintains vibrancy. After this period, the wine will slowly decline as fruit fades and tannins soften further, leading to loss of structure.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled lamb chops, roasted game birds, or mushroom risotto. Rich meat dishes with earthy spices or a touch of smoky char complement the wine’s profile. As it evolves, stronger game or aged cheeses also match well.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (60-90 minutes) — To soften tannins and open the complex aromas developed with aging

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Likely small-lot artisanal production with some sustainable practices common in Paso Robles regions but no verified certifications

Due to limited public information, the wine likely follows conventional sustainable practices seen in boutique California wineries but lacks formal verification.