I have seen many writers describe Touriga Nacional as being the queen grape of Portugal, this does seem fitting. This grape may not be the most planted grape in Portugal, but it is definitely one of the most important and well known grapes. I believe that is due to it being one of the 5 main grapes in Port wine.

The origins of where it comes from are vague at best. Some say it originated in the Dão and some will say the Douro, but it clearly originated in Portugal.

The grape is low yielding, small and thick skinned and produces concentrated aromatic red wine. It takes a lot of attention in the vineyard as it can over-ripen easily. It is a grape that you will typically find blended (much of Portuguese wines are blends). However, when managed properly in the vineyard and during the winemaking process it can make a beautiful single varietal wine.

It is also grown in California, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Brazil. And now to close out with a fun tidbit, Touriga Nacional is one of the grapes now permitted in Bordeaux. It may very well save Bordeaux wines from climate change in the near future.

You can try single varietal Touriga Nacional wines at Fitapreta, Quinta da Boa Esperança, ODE Winery, Herdade do Rocim, and João Portugal Ramos. They each offer unique wine experiences that will make the wines even more enjoyable.  I recommend ordering these wines if you are in Portugal to try them even if you cannot make it to the winery.  You can also find many more wines blended with Touriga Nacional at many of our other winery partners.