Wines Douro Quinta das Carvalhas - Reserva - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Quinta das Carvalhas Cuvée Reserva 2022 is a dry red wine hailing from the renowned Douro region in Portugal. Crafted with care, this reserva cuvée benefits from a blend of indigenous grape varieties typical of the area, such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz, which together yield both power and elegance. The 2022 vintage stands out for its ripe fruit profile, as the growing season was marked by warm, sunny days and cool nights, allowing for optimal grape maturation. The vinification process emphasizes gentle extraction, with careful maceration and aging in both stainless steel and oak barrels, contributing a touch of spice and rounding out the tannic structure. What emerges is a deeply colored wine with expressive aromas of dark berries, plum, subtle floral notes, and well-integrated nuances of vanilla and toasted wood.

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the world’s most spectacular and historic wine regions. With steep, terraced vineyards carved out of schist and granite hillsides, the terroir gives the region's wines their signature minerality and complexity. The climate, influenced by the Douro River, is predominantly continental, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. This setting, combined with centuries-old viticultural traditions, has helped the Douro rise to international acclaim not only for its famous ports but also for sophisticated dry red wines like this Cuvée Reserva.

To enjoy Quinta das Carvalhas Cuvée Reserva at its best, pair it with robust dishes that reflect the wine’s depth and aromatic profile. Traditional Portuguese cuisine offers wonderful matches such as roast lamb with herbs, grilled chouriço sausage, or a rich feijoada (bean stew with pork). The wine’s structured tannins and vibrant acidity also complement mature cheeses or a simple steak grilled over an open flame.

For optimal tasting, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for around 30 minutes will allow its bouquet to open up and the tannins to soften, ensuring a harmoniously balanced and memorable drinking experience.