An interesting wine, still very young, with acids and tannins that need to date a few more years in the cellar before they’re ready to marry and settle down. Dark sour cherry and white pepper, with a vanilla background, are on the nose. On the palate, tart black cherries covered with very dark chocolate lead to a darker mid-palate, some plums showing through. Vanilla from the oak is apparent. Acids are sharp, tannins dusty, drying, and dominant. This could well be elegant in another five years. Right now it is an overgrown teenager, unaware of its own strength and not yet in full control of its growing body. Drink with a big, wet, sloppy burger, one piled high with a little bit of everything, now, or drink with a nice steak in 2017. Highly Recommended.DH
WHO: Quinta do Crasto
WHAT: Red Blend
WHERE: Portugal, Douro
WHEN: 2005
HOW MUCH: $22
