2017 Taylor Fladgate - Porto Late Bottled Vintage
Taylor Fladgate’s 2017 Late Bottled Vintage Port concentrates mature Douro Valley fruit character into a bottle ready to drink immediately, circumventing the multi-year cellar demand typical of traditional vintage Port. Each 750 ml unit spends approximately four to six years aging in seasoned Portuguese oak before light filtration and bottling, guaranteeing structural balance and shelf-ready consistency.
The tasting profile begins with concentrated black cherry and stewed plum, transitioning into roasted cocoa nibs, cured tobacco, and a measured trace of cloves and cardamom. Residual sugar integrates smoothly with softened tannins, creating a medium-full mouthfeel that coats the palate evenly. With brief exposure to air, dried orange peel and a subtle stony minerality surface in the finish.
Pour this fortified wine between 16°C and 18°C using a standard 90 ml to 120 ml serving size. Because extended barrel contact and pre-disgorgement filtration have fully stabilized the liquid, decanting is unnecessary. Match the sweetness and spice to sharp, salty cheeses such as mature Cheddar or Stilton, serve alongside dark chocolate ganache or bitter almond biscotti, or enjoy neat as a post-meal digestif. Keep the unopened bottle in a temperate environment away from direct light; after opening, reseal securely and finish within three to four weeks.