This 2016 Touriga Franca is the debut of a new monovarietal in Crasto's lineup, sourced from 35-year-old vines. It was aged for 18 months in 90% used French oak and comes in at 14% alcohol. More nuanced than the Touriga Nacional (but not as sexy or as aromatic), this has a touch of rhubarb and herbs, then plums. Despite being double decanted for some six hours, it showed the ability to improve notably in the glass over an hour or more, constantly getting better. Good depth and moderate tannins allow the wine to seem serious and well balanced. I liked this more and more as it aired out. Admittedly, there is no track record, but it made me want to lean up on it for the moment. It will have some questions to answer in the cellar, but it seems like an impressive debut.

One of a series of single-varietal wines from this producer, this wine celebrates one of the essential grapes of the Douro region. It is a balanced, rich, black-fruit dominated, while also succulent wine. Generous tannins have been softened by the wood aging into a luxurious texture.

A suave red, with toast and smoky notes edging the blackberry tart, slate and espresso flavors. Refined tannins gain momentum, with hoisin sauce, wild herb, anise and spice details on the finish.