At a glance

Producer

Quinta da Lua

Region

Dão, Portugal

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberries, dark cherry, floral violet notes with hints of spice and subtle oak

Evolution: Will gain complexity with tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and earth developing over next 5-7 years

At peak: Rich, layered fruit balanced with smooth tannins and savory depth

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium to High

Alcohol

14.0%

Aging potential

10-15 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2035

Optimal window

2022 to 2030

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Wine should be showing well with integrated tannins and developing complexity

Touriga Nacional from Dão in 2018 benefits from a warm vintage that produced concentrated fruit with good balance, allowing it to develop well into its second decade. The structured tannins and moderate acidity support long-term aging, with peak drinking starting 4-7 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted lamb, grilled red meats, aged cheeses, and hearty stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To allow the wine to open up and soften tannins, enhancing aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Use of cover crops, water-efficient irrigation, minimal use of synthetic chemicals, partially reclaimed glass packaging

Quinta da Lua implements several sustainable farming techniques aimed at soil health and resource conservation but does not have formal certifications. Packaging uses some recycled materials. Carbon footprint is moderate due to export shipments outside Europe.