Should Douro Moscatel be included in the Port TNs?

[Alex Bridgeman]

IVDP regulations permit two types of fortified wine to be made in the Douro. One is Port, the other is fortified Moscatel.

Slightly confusingly, moscatel grapes are permitted to be used in making white Port. But that’s a conversation for another day.


I was looking through the Port TN index and noticed there’s one reference to a Douro Moscatel.

Should we include Douro Moscatels in the Port TNs and therefore in the Port TN index or should I move this note to the “Other Fortified Wines” section? Thoughts and comments please?

[Glenn E.]

The Moscatels from JMdF (which are Setubal, not Douro) are difficult to distinguish from good white Ports. If Douro versions are as good*, then I have no problem with them being kept with the Port TN index.

* doubtful. It is unfair to compare them to JMdF.

[winesecretary]

I would place it in the OFWs section.

[M.Charlton]

I would place it in the OFWs section.

Agree.

[PhilW]

Agree with OFW.

[Alex Bridgeman]

OK. I'll move it across later this weekend.

[mosesbotbol]

Non-Douro Portuguese fortified wines from the mainland should be included in the port TN's, IMO.

[Alex Bridgeman]

Non-Douro Portuguese fortified wines from the mainland should be included in the port TN's, IMO.

When I've written a tasting note - or even a trip report - on Portuguese fortified wines from outside the Douro, I've always put them in the Other Fortified Wines forum. Things like Carcavelos, Setúbal and fortified Alicante Bouschet from the Alentejo.