Touriga Nacional

A grape guide

Touriga Nacional

I have seen many writers describe Touriga Nacional as being the queen grape of Portugal, this does seem fitting. This grape may not be the most planted grape in Portugal, but it is definitely one of the most important and well known grapes. I believe that is due to it being one of the 5 main grapes in Port wine.

The origins of where it comes from are vague at best. Some say it originated in the Dão and some will say the Douro, but it clearly originated in Portugal.

The grape is low yielding, small and thick skinned and produces concentrated aromatic red wine. It takes a lot of attention in the vineyard as it can over-ripen easily. It is a grape that you will typically find blended (much of Portuguese wines are blends). However, when managed properly in the vineyard and during the winemaking process it can make a beautiful single varietal wine.

It is also grown in California, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Brazil. And now to close out with a fun tidbit, Touriga Nacional is one of the grapes now permitted in Bordeaux. It may very well save Bordeaux wines from climate change in the near future.

I am starting to learn Portuguese, so if I get a translation wrong on my graphics, please let me know. I need to learn, plus I can quickly update and correct them. Obrigada!