Destino Fifth Empire Douro Red Blend 2019 Review

Takeaway

A bold Portuguese red that looks intimidating but turns out to be surprisingly balanced and perfect to share over dinner.

First Thought

This week, Colin brought us back to Portugal with a bottle of Fifth Empire Duro Red Blend 2019. After a string of French wines, he wanted to revisit a region we’ve only skimmed before, and the blend of grapes caught his eye – Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz (better known in Spain as Tempranillo).

At around twenty dollars, it was an affordable gamble, though Colin admitted he was a little uneasy after finding almost no information about the producer. Still, the heavy bottle and dark, brooding label had us curious. Expectations? A big, possibly overwhelming red.

Tasting NOtes

From the first swirl, the nose was intense – oak, baking spices, and dark fruit leapt out of the glass. Think black cherry, plum, and even a touch of vanilla. Joel compared it to stepping into a hotel room with too many bags: everything was there, but it needed time to settle.

On the palate, things took an unexpected turn. Instead of being heavy and punishing, the wine showed surprising lift. The fruit carried through – cherry, raspberry, and even a little rose petal – but the acidity kept it fresh. The oak was present, leaning more caramel than vanilla, but it didn’t drown the fruit. Medium tannins gave it structure without drying the mouth.

As the wine opened, the pieces came together more harmoniously. The dark fruit, floral notes, and oak stopped competing and started working in sync, making each sip more enjoyable.

Quick Tasting Notes

• Black cherry and plum
• Raspberry brightness
• Vanilla and caramel from oak
• Rose petal
• Medium tannins
• Balanced acidity

Highlights

What’s Inside
A classic Duro blend: 40 percent Touriga Nacional, 30 percent Touriga Franca, and 30 percent Tinta Roriz (aka Tempranillo).

Why It’s Special
It looks like a bruiser but drinks with balance. The acidity and floral lift keep it from being just another heavy red.

Decanting Tip
Give it air. The first pour feels chaotic, but after a little time the flavors settle into place.

Food Match
Perfect with grilled steak, charcuterie, or anything saucy like barbecue pulled pork. It needs food to shine.

Price Check
Around twenty dollars, making it a safe bet for a dinner party red.

Final Verdict

Aaron – Must Share
Aaron called this a wine that belongs at the table. Not a casual sipper, but a solid bottle to pair with a meal and a great way to spark conversation about Portuguese wine.

Joel – Must Share
For Joel, it was right on the line between casual and must share, but the surprising balance nudged it over. He admired how approachable it was despite the bold aromas.

Colin – Must Share
Colin admitted it’s not his personal style, but the wine is well made and undeniably interesting. With food, especially red meat or barbecue, it really works.

Group Consensus: Must Share
All three hosts agreed—this isn’t a waste of your wine. For twenty bucks, it’s a smart pick when you want a red that sparks conversation and stands up to dinner.

And as always Stop Wasting Your Wine!