deVine Thoughts

Author: Dirk Chan

The 2016 Port Vintage is the first general declaration since the 2011. With the 2016s, they are definitely going to make a splash – the growing season got off to a late start, following a very rainy spring that would make the different later during harvest time. As is typical of the Douro Valley, they entered into its typically hot and dry period in June and July, the vines had enough water reserves to help them along, with only a few areas suffering from hydric stress. A light rain came in a timely fashion on Sept. 13, to give the vineyards a freshening, and with the vintage running a week behind, growers could take advantage of ideal weather conditions into October, picking the later-ripening varieties such as Touriga Franca at optimum quality.

We were thrilled with the stupendous quality of the 2016 Vintage Ports at our recent tasting -they really are exceptional, with some of the most refined tannins ever, so much fruit as to hide the immense structure underneath. The gorgeous black and red fruit flavours while being extraordinarily intense with a glass staining purple colour. These ports will be impressive down the road, and offer great, exuberant drinking now as well. There is great balance, with Baumés, acidity and tannins in that rare and perfect alignment. This is certainly a vintage to include in your cellar to enjoy in your later years or to celebrate a significant year.

Production of each of the 2016 Vintage Ports is approximately 1/5 below the previously declared 2011’s with a very rigorous selection by most houses. For the first time in awhile, we are offering 375mL half bottle formats. Don’t miss this special vintage as quantities are limited!

Pictured left to right:

2016 Porto Quevedo Vintage Port (Douro, Portugal) – $99.99