The 2021 Coates The Touriga Nacional is a distinctive single-varietal Touriga Nacional from Langhorne Creek, South Australia, showcasing one of Portugal's most celebrated red grape varieties in a refined Australian style. Naturally fermented in open stainless-steel fermenters and matured for 15 months in French oak barriques (one-third new), the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve its purity and character. The 2021 vintage opens with lifted aromas of violet, blackberry and dark plum, complemented by the variety's signature floral perfume, Earl Grey tea, subtle spice and hints of cedar.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with fine-grained tannins, vibrant natural acidity and a smooth, beautifully structured texture. Flavours of blackberry, black cherry and ripe plum are layered with notes of dark chocolate, dried herbs, spice and gentle oak, leading to a long, savoury finish with impressive balance. In its youth, the wine is defined by fragrant floral aromatics and freshness, while additional bottle age will reveal deeper savoury complexity and a more brooding character.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for customers looking to discover Touriga Nacional beyond its traditional Portuguese origins. Its floral aromatics, structured palate and balanced acidity make it a rewarding wine for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, slow-roasted beef, venison, smoky barbecue dishes or aged Manchego and hard cheeses. Enjoy now after 30–60 minutes of decanting, or cellar over the next 8–12 years as the wine develops greater savoury depth and complexity.
