Origin
With its own little railway station and precipitous vineyard slopes (where the vines cling for dear life!) Quinta de Vargellas is one of the (River) Douro’s most familiar sites and greatest single vineyards. Close to the Spanish border, the vineyards are composed of poor, rock hard schist soils. Vines are very old – with parcels over 100 years.
Vargellas is the backbone of the blend in all Taylor’s declared Vintage Ports, but in many years they make this release just from the single Quinta. The tradition is still maintained here of foot treading the grapes for their top Vintage Ports. The single Quinta wines are usually more forward and expressive early on, but capture all the pedigree, power and elegance of the Taylor house style.
Producer
Of all the Port houses, few are more renowned and historic as Taylor’s. Taylor’s is one of the oldest founding Port Houses; a history that began in 1692, it remains to this day independent and family-owned. It’s ageing cellars remain in Oporto, the birthplace of the Port industry.
Taylor’s is also revered for its innovation, having pioneered the Late Bottled Vintage style. Its resources are unrivalled, with one of the largest reserves of cask-aged wines to create their tawny Ports and an extensive ownership of the top vineyard sites throughout the Douro.
Grape Variety
Touriga Nacional is dominant in this blend, which also includes Touriga Francesa, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca,Tinta Cão and Tinta Amarela.
Includes grapes which have been traditionally foot trodden. Aged for two years in large old casks, prior to bottling unfiltered and unfined.
Food Match
Just ready to drink now, but do decant the clear wine gently (off its sediment lees) a couple of hours, at least, before serving. It will improve with aeration in a decanter.
Pair, classically, with a full flavoured cheese board selection, served with walnut bread and quince jelly. Equally enjoy on its own and sip into the evening.
Alcohol Percentage
20.5%
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