Caves Dom Teodosio S.A., a big wine bottling and producing company in Portugal, produces Cardeal Dao Reserva. This wine is made from 100% Touriga-Nacional from the Dão region. It is fermented in stainless steel vat. Bottling and subsequent bottle aging takes place in the company's Rio Maior facilities. This wine is released only after aging in the cask and bottle for a couple of years.ABV: 13%, Price paid: $10
Tasting notes:
Color: Medium ruby.
Nose: Dark fruit (plum) initially. With air, faint floral aroma and notes of caramel appears.
Palate: Not very complex. Consistent delivery of luscious dried plum, hints of dried herb and wood. The acidity is lively with a slight touch of vegetation on the mid-palate together with heat at the back of the throat. Tannins is very integrated.
Body: Medium at best but very soft and smooth. Not much structure.
Finish: Medium with persistent fruit. Hints of earthiness.
Comment:
Cardeal Reserva is a versatile every day wine. Given its characteristics of lively acidity, abudence of fruit and integrated tannis, it should compliment a wide variety of dishes.
This wine is consumed over a 3 day's period. The best showing is on day 2 when every element comes together nicely.
Also, it would be interesting to keep a couple of bottles around to see how it develops in the next 2-3 years.
