At a glance

Producer

Quinta da Pellada

Region

Douro, Portugal

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca (red Bordeaux-style blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$40

Tasting profile

Blackberry, plum, dark cherry, hints of slate and dried herbs, firm tannins, and earthy minerality

Evolution: Over next 5-10 years, fruit will integrate with spice, leather, and tobacco notes gaining complexity

At peak: Fully integrated tannins with complex layers of dark fruit, mineral, leather, and earth aromas with smooth finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced moderate to high acidity typical of Douro red blends

Tannins

Firm, ripe tannins providing solid structure

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential of 15-20+ years due to structure and vintage quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2035

Optimal window

2023 to 2037

Current status

Drinking well, approaching early maturity

Current condition

Fresh fruit with developing complexity, still tight tannins

The Quinta da Pellada Primus 2017 is from a strong Douro vintage with sufficient structure and balance to evolve gracefully for 15-20 years. The robust tannins and acidity are the backbone allowing this wine a long drinking window with maturation of complex tertiary aromas developing around 7-10 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted lamb, game meats, beef stews, aged cheeses, and hearty dishes with Mediterranean herbs and spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow aeration that softens tannins and helps open up concentrated dark fruit and mineral notes

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Quinta da Pellada employs integrated pest management, water use optimization, and careful canopy management to reduce inputs and environmental impact. They use lightweight bottles and recyclable packaging materials.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Quinta da Pellada emphasizes sustainable viticulture and resource conservation practices that balance quality production with environmental responsibility. Their location and export logistics contribute moderately to carbon footprint, but packaging and farming practices positively impact overall sustainability profile.