Portuguese wines impressed very much in round one, with a Douro (2015 Niepoort Batuta) beating a southern variant (2015 Herdade do Portocarro). The region looks like one of the stars from a QPR perspective.
In Lebanon we all know Musar, with their 2016 knocking out an Austrian blend in the last round, but I was curious to see what further variety there was to be found.
Notes and results in the comments.
by rob1001-
1 Comment
Wine 1) 2017 Quinta do Crasto Touriga Franca Tinto, Cima Corgo, Douro, Portugal.
100% Touriga Franca, 13.5% alcohol.
Ratings: Jancis Robinson 16/20, Wine Enthusiast 93/100, Vivino 4.5/5. 65 EUR paid November 2024
Wine 2) 2016 El Ixsir, Batroun, North Lebanon.
Blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, 14% alcohol.
Ratings: James Suckling 93/100, Vivino 4.3/5. 56 EUR paid September 2024
About the vineyards:
Quinta do Crasto: On the right bank of the Douro between Ergua and Pinhao. Vineyards at 300m with steepish slopes. Schist soils These 100% Touriga Franca wines are only produced in years where quality is higher enough. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels.
Ixsir – Grapes sourced from 3 locations including the highest vineyard in Lebanon at 1800m. Clay, sand and limestone soils. 24 months in French oak.
Tasting: Starting with the Portuguese wine, I have never had 100% Touriga Franca before. Definitely some similarities with Cabernet Franc. A delicious mintiness as well as ripe fruits and berries. Some definite violet. Tannins light and well balanced, with a great freshness. The El Ixsir showed more black fruits and plums, as well as cinnamon and vanilla. Definitely felt like a hotter climate wine despite the high altitude and similar alcohol level. Became better balanced with food.
Verdict: Both wines were enjoyable and interesting, but the Douro was clearly the winner here for all in the group.