Barão de Vilar has introduced this 2020 vintage wine that intrigues from the outset, not least due to its unusual packaging. The decision to wrap the bottle in a different paper-over-glass certainly catches the eye, but this novelty might wear thin as it obscures how much wine is left. Made from a blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tempranillo grapes, this bottle carries the promise of a deep flavoured and refined flavour profile.
With an alcohol content of 14.0% ABV, the wine undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks before being aged for 12 months in barrels that once nurtured Vintage Port.
Upon tasting, the medium to full bodied wine reveals a black fruit aroma, leading with an initial cherry flavour that gives way to a slightly nutty, medium length, finish. If I am being very picky, it perhaps doesn’t quite live up to expectations in terms of mouthfeel and the robust ending you might anticipate, given the promising bottle description. Nevertheless, it’s a great wine for the price, especially as Douro reds usually command a premium over other Portuguese reds.
Regularly priced at £11.50, I managed to buy it with a 25% discount, bringing the price down to £8.62. At the time of writing, there’s an offer where the wine is available for £10, which with the 25% discount, reduces the price to £7.50. Available at Sainsbury’s and independent retailers.
