The 2019 Touriga Franca was aged for 18 months in 90% new French oak and comes in at 14.7% alcohol. It is not common to see this grape as a monovarietal, but there are some. Crasto is getting it right and helping to lead the way. This opens softly, leaning to sensuality, but it expands in the glass, shows off its fine structure and becomes steadily more interesting. It is a lot less sensual at that point but a lot more powerful. The finish is long and gripping. Since the tannins are moderately ripe, this can be drunk now, but this has a real backbone. Giving it a few years to age would be a great idea. It is still closed and a little too aggressive. Some cellaring will let it come together and become more harmonious. It's hard pressed to match the aromatic glory of its Touriga Nacional sibling, but it certainly has virtues of its own. It does seem very ripe this year. Hopefully, it holds its balance as it ages. There were just 5,414 bottles produced, plus some large-format bottles.
94 points, Mark Squires, Wine Advocate (May 2022)
This Touriga Franca comes from the Crasto home vineyard. The wine's toast, herbs and wild berry aromas are reflected in the solid, perfumed flavors, blueberry fruits and refined texture. The wine will be ready from 2026. Suitable for vegans.
94 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (May 2024)
Attractive blue-fruited character here with spices and blue flowers. Hints of iron, too. Tannins are tightly packed, but very fine and lingering. Medium to full body. It’s concentrated and fresh at the same time, with stony minerality at the end. So much verve. They only make this bottling in top years. Drink or hold.
94 points, James Suckling (Apr 2023)
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