2017 Symington Altano Douro DOC – red label

In the 1990s Symington began producing Douro DOC wines from the same vineyards and indigenous grape varieties in the principally Cima Corgo and Douro Superior sub-regions they used for their ports. Symington works according to sustainable agricultural practices which favours natural measures to control pests and other threats to the vines. The Altano red saw its first release in 1999 and is still going strong as a forward, fruity wine.

Based on Tinta Roriz Symington added Touriga Franca, Tinta Barraco too.  Tinta Roriz performed remarkably well in 2017, as did the Touriga Franca, always a late-ripener. Proportions vary each year.

Generous aromas of wildflowers and ripe black cherries on the nose. On the palate a wine with a balanced acidity and the juicy concentrated fruitiness of ripe black-currant, plum and blackberry fruit. Smooth and silky mouthfeel with some spice and ripe tannins make rhe Altana Douro red a crowd pleaser.
Some ripe fruity, almost savoury sweetness and chocolate in the finish. Clearly a wine that goes well with food.