Fruit from Quinta do Junco, Quinta de Terra Feita and Quinta da Vargellas, in ascending order of importance, with co-fermentation of varieties whenever possible. All the Fladgate vintage ports are typically foot-trodden in granite lagares for the initial part of the fermentation, before mechanical pistons take over, all whole bunches. The spirit for fortification is made from their own grapes. 7–8 months in small seasoned oak vats in the Douro and then 10 months in the same vats in Vila Nova de Gaia. TA 4.7 g/l, pH 3.68, RS 92 g/l. Production 5,000 cases of 12.
Darkest crimson with soft purplish rim. Less explosive than some 2024 ports but with an immediate impression of finesse and concentration. Black, black fruit that is so intense it becomes savoury on the palate. Many layers of the finest tannins so that the whole is firmly built. Great purity and length. Chiselled without being lean. 2034 – 2080.
A blend from Terra Feita and Junco, Taylor’s main quintas in the Pinhão Valley, along with Quinta de Vargellas in the Douro Superior. 5,000 cases in total. Deep, opaque blue-black colour; open and aromatic like the Sentinels but with another dimension, ripe, floral, racy and airy (the first time that I think I have used these words to describe Vintage Port); rich and supple with vibrant yet beautifully defined berry and damson fruit backed by firm, fine-grained schistous tannins, not big in the scheme of things but so pure and precise with a long, grippy finish. This wine has outstanding finesse which you can appreciate and enjoy now but it has the balance and poise to last and last.
