Today I am tasting the 2006 DOC Douro Red Wine Vinzelo from the Douro region of Portugal. Quinta de Ventozelo produces this wine as a blend of 30% Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), 30% Touriga Franca, 30% Tinta Barroca, and 10% Touriga Nacional. These are the traditional varietals used in the making of port wine (a favorite of mine). I found this wine for under $7.
Color
The color is ruby red. Not too thin, but definitely not on the black or purple side of the red wine spectrum.
Aroma
Loads of red fruit on the nose. Strawberry, raspberry and cherries. I also detect a bit of mint. The wine is nice and open.
Flavor
Very fruity with mild tannins and some acidity on the finish. There is a little bit of the dry chalkiness in it from the tannins. The fruit again seems to be mainly red fruit, such as cherries and plums. On the finish, there are some sour cherries showing up. It is an average wine which I am more inclined to drink with food and not on its own. I’d pair it with pasta and red sauce, pizza, and mild cheese.
Rating
The Douro Vinzelo reminds me of Rioja (Tempranillo from Spain) or Chianti. I think is pretty average. It is sufficient, but not thrilling. Perhaps Quinta de Ventozelo should stick to Port. I rate this wine at 85 points.
Have you tried a good wine from Portugal?
