At a glance

Producer

Quinta do Vale Dona Maria

Region

Dão, Portugal

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional (likely dominant varietal)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Red and black fruits, subtle spice, herbal notes with mineral undertones; medium tannins and fresh acidity.

Evolution: Fruits will evolve into more complex tertiary notes like leather, forest floor, and dried herbs over next 5-8 years.

At peak: Ripe fruit complexity balanced by savory and mineral characteristics with softer, integrated tannins.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing freshness and aging potential

Tannins

Medium to medium-plus, finely grained

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5%-14%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage, owing to the quality and varietal structure

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2022 to 2032

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

The 2017 vintage is showing good development with structured tannins and balanced acidity.

The combination of above-average 2017 vintage in Dão and typical Touriga Nacional structure supports a drinking window extending well into the 2030s. The wine currently shows promising balance and complexity that will improve with moderate bottle age.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats, game dishes, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and mushroom-based recipes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic complexity to open up, especially beneficial for a 5-7 year old vintage.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Quinta do Vale Dona Maria employs water conservation, integrated pest management, and energy-efficient operations. Uses eco-friendly packaging materials.

While not fully certified organic or biodynamic, the producer demonstrates commitment to sustainable farming practices, including soil health and resource efficiency. Vineyard is family-owned with focus on minimal intervention, which supports environmental stewardship.