Taylor Fladgate Vintage Porto 1997

I love Port, always have, always will. I remember the first time I tasted it at an in-depth styles of Port tasting paired with a variety of nuts, cheeses, dried fruit and chocolate. It BLEW my mind!  It was an explosion of flavors and textures. I was instantly hooked. 

𝓣𝓪𝔂𝓵𝓸𝓻 𝓕𝓵𝓪𝓭𝓰𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓥𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓰𝓮 𝓟𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓸 1997

Why is Vintage Port so special, so revered?  For many reasons - it is only made from a single vintage, top quality fruit and fortified with a neutral spirit and declared in the best years once the Institute of Douro and Porto approves the quality standards.  The port is generally aged for a short 2-3 years in barrels followed by very extended bottle ageing, 15+ years.  

Taylor Fladgate is one of the creme de la creme producers. 

Deep and dark garnet color, loose yourself in its richness.  Striking aromas of leather, tobacco, dried fig, prune, dusty graphite, licorice, nutmeg, pepper, black cherry, blackberry, wet leaves, kirsch and smoke. But wait it doesn’t end there - its sooooooo smooth & soft silky on the palate, every single element is harmonious, the supple tannins, the fresh acidity, the pronounced intensity and extremely long finish.  The aromas carry forward on the palate in its medium sweet deliciousness. It’s very vibrant and fresh considering it’s 25 years old! 

I paired it with a Port board with classic pairings - the mature blue cheese, especially Stilton - its the sweet and salty contrast, similar unctuous textures and the strength of the flavors. Add in dark chocolate, dried figs and walnuts - it’s pure pleasure in every single bite and sip.