Quinta do Crasto Douro Red 2018 Douro, Portugal 75cl

Quinta do Crasto is one of the Douro’s most recognised estates, its vineyards on a dramatic bend of the river with roots that reach back to the seventeenth century. Today it is run by the Roquette family, who have built a reputation for reds that speak clearly of their steep, schist terraces.

This is the estate’s entry red, a blend of traditional Douro varieties such as Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional drawn from a mix of old and younger vines on the estate’s schist terraces. It is made to show the house style in an approachable, everyday form rather than as a single-vineyard statement, and it is a reliable introduction to the wider Crasto range.

The 2018 season in the Douro was cooler and later than the run of hot years before it, giving a more classic, balanced profile with good freshness alongside the ripeness. It is a vintage that favours poise over sheer power.

Expect a youthful, concentrated red with dark berry fruit, black pepper and a herbal, almost floral note, framed by robust but ripe tannins and a firm, savoury finish. It has the grip to sit alongside food and a little cellar potential if you prefer, though it drinks well now with an hour in a decanter.

Roast lamb, grilled red meat and rich stews are natural partners, and it stands up to spice and char. If you enjoy a full Rhone red or a young Douro blend, this is an honest, well-priced way into the region from a serious name.