Quinta do Crasto Reserva Old Vines 2023

Region and Vineyards

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Portugal’s most historic wine regions, known for its terraced vineyards and steep slopes. Quinta do Crasto’s Reserva Old Vines is sourced from 70-year-old mixed plantings situated at altitudes ranging from 120 to 450 meters, facing all directions to capture diverse microclimates. The traditional socalcos, or stone-supported terraces, provide ideal growing conditions by optimizing sun exposure and drainage.

The 2021 growing season was characterized by a cold winter with abundant rainfall, ensuring excellent water reserves. Mild spring temperatures allowed a stress-free growth cycle, while the summer brought warm days and cool nights, preserving acidity and aromatic complexity. Aided by light rains in early September, the vintage achieved exceptional ripeness, producing wines of elegance, freshness, and aging potential.

Winemaking

The grapes, harvested by hand, undergo a meticulous selection process at the winery before destemming and gentle crushing. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, preserving the freshness and integrity of the fruit. After fermentation, the wine is pressed and aged for 18 months in French (85%) and American (15%) oak barrels, adding layers of complexity and integration.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep, dark ruby.
• Aroma: Intense and complex, with aromas of ripe red fruits, complemented by notes of forest wood and fresh gum cistus.
• Palate: Elegant entry, evolving into a structured, full-bodied wine with velvety tannins and a balanced, persistent finish. Flavors of red berries, spices, and subtle oak provide extraordinary depth and harmony.

Did you know?

The mixed plantings in Quinta do Crasto’s old vineyards include up to 30 different grape varieties, some of which are rare and contribute to the wine’s unique complexity. This traditional vineyard style, known as "field blending," is a hallmark of the Douro Valley.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Porco Preto Rôti: The wine’s structure and tannins complement the savory richness of Portuguese black pork.
• Cabrito Assado: The earthy flavors of roasted goat match the wine’s depth and complexity.
• Bacalhau à Brás: The wine’s freshness cuts through the dish’s creamy textures and enhances its flavors.
• Azeitão Cheese: The velvety tannins and red fruit notes pair beautifully with the tangy, creamy profile of this Portuguese cheese.

Located on the right bank of the Douro River, between the towns of Régua and Pinhão, Quinta do Crasto is a property of 130 hectares, 70 of which are planted with vines.

Nestled on a privileged location in the Douro Demarcated Region, Quinta do Crasto has belonged to the family of Leonor and Jorge Roquette for over a century and like all the great properties of the Douro it dates back to ancient times - the name "Crasto" is derived from the Latin word "castrum", which means "Roman fort".

The large investments made over the past few years have seen considerable advancements in the reorganisation of the vineyards and the implementation of modern equipment in the winery. This work has resulted in a great selection of top-quality wines, including blended wines (Crasto, Crasto Superior and Quinta do Crasto Reserva Old Vines), single varietal wines (Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional), single vineyard wines (Vinha da Ponte and Vinha Maria Teresa), and special category of Port wines (Finest Reserve, LBV and Vintage).

Despite the use of state-of-the-art winemaking technology, Quinta do Crasto maintains its traditional foot treading method, carried out in large granite tanks called "lagares".

The completion of this phase of investment and the passion for making exceptional wines has contributed to Quinta de Crasto´s growing national and international reputation.