Taylor's Vintage Port 2018

Taylor's Vintage Port 2018 is a red port wine from the Duoro Valley. One of the finest collectible Port wines, Vintage Port wines are aged in the cellar for decades, slowly developing the elegance and harmony that are the hallmarks of an aged Taylor's Vintage Port wine.

Taylor's Vintage Port is one of the world's great iconic wines. Produced only in the best years - known as declared vintages - it is blended from the finest produce from its own vineyards, Quinta de Vargellas, Quinta de Terra Feita and most recently Quinta do Junco.

After each harvest, a tasting panel selects the best port wines from these three estates, which are then aged for 2 winters in oak barrels.

The 2018 vineyard cycle was unusual and had a significant impact on the character of the wines. The previous year had been very dry and hot and by 15 January almost two thirds of the country was suffering from drought, with the Douro Valley being one of the worst affected areas. Fortunately, the heavy rains in March prevented damage to the vines and replenished groundwater reserves.

Yields were very low and, according to the winemakers' notes, the new wines were characterised by elegance, fresh fruit, good acidity and intense colour.

Colour: ruby with purple highlights
Nose: blackberry, blackcurrant, hints of cherry and coffee
Taste: tannins, dark berries, herbs, mint, rose