Taylor's Quinta das Vargellas 2004 Vinhas Velhas

The 2003/2004 winter was very dry, recording only a third of the rain that occurred in the previous winter. The lack of water during the beginning of the growing season greatly reduced disease pressure. In July, the biggest concern was the possibility that the vineyards would not be able to ripen the grapes sufficiently due to the drastic water shortage.

The harvest stood out for its perfect weather conditions throughout the period. The young Port wines showed good structure, with very fresh aromas of wild fruits, a consequence of the cooler than normal maturation period.

Very concentrated wine with aromas of intense black fruit and dark dark chocolate. It gives the feeling of an immense, unsettling wine waiting to express itself. It completely fills your mouth – almost overwhelming in its intensity. Then, a selection of flavors strikes the senses – dark dark chocolate, ripe and rich black plum, cherries, blueberries and blackberry compote. The wine is chewy, meaty, full of punch. Although it has a great structure, the balance is finely adjusted and, therefore, the sensation is of a wine with enormous strength, but also with great delicacy and elegance. Flavors of cassis, blackberries, licorice and molasses tantalise the palate, with a finish that is deliciously and pleasantly long.