2022 Mary Taylor Filipe Ferreira Douro Tinto

Mary Taylor's Filipe Ferreira Douro Tinto is a captivating red blend from Portugal's esteemed Douro Valley, specifically the Cima Corgo subregion. This wine harmoniously combines 60% Touriga Nacional, 25% Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), and 15% Touriga Franca, showcasing the region's rich viticultural heritage. Produced at Quinta da Foz, a historic estate established in 1872 by the Calém family, the vineyards boast an average vine age of 80 years, contributing to the wine's depth and complexity. The 2022 vintage reflects the winery's dedication to traditional winemaking practices, including hand harvesting and foot treading in granite lagares, resulting in a wine that truly embodies the Douro's terroir.

Nose: Blackberry and wild cherry aromas leap from the glass, intertwined with violet florals and mountain herbs. Subtle hints of graphite and warm spices emerge as the wine breathes. A fascinating mineral undercurrent reflects the Douro's famous schist soils, while gentle whiffs of cedar add complexity without overwhelming the fruit purity.

Palate: Vibrant blackberry and plum flavors dance across the palate, supported by firm yet approachable tannins. The wine's moderate body carries remarkable freshness for the region, balancing concentration with drinkability. Savory notes of black olive and wild herbs complement the dark fruit core. A touch of licorice and warm earth emerges mid-palate, adding depth to this honest expression.

Finish: The finish reveals impressive length, with lingering dark fruits gradually yielding to subtle baking spices. Fine-grained tannins provide structure without astringency, gently fading into a mineral afterglow. Cool graphite notes persist, reflecting the wine's schist-soil origins and leaving you reaching for another sip of this compelling Portuguese red.

This versatile Douro red shines alongside grilled chorizo or slow-roasted pork shoulder with herbs. Try it with Portugal's famous bacalhau à brás (salt cod with potatoes and eggs) for an authentic regional pairing. The wine's structure handles hearty beef stews while its freshness complements summer barbecues featuring lamb chops with rosemary and garlic.