Porto Vintage 2013

A blend of 30 traditional grapes, above all Touriga Nacional, fortified by 19% neutral spirits when the sugar level drops below 100g/l. The wine ages in barriques and stainless steel vats for two years. It has a very shiny and consistent dark ruby color. There are scents of licorice, graphite and all the balsamic dark fruit you could want and while the aroma is complex it is not toned down. The mouthfeel is still distinctly sweet and this is why the producer suggests not consuming this vintage until 2025. However, the tannins are held up by a good acidity considering the varieties of the grapes and the vintage (the producer says) and the finish is not fruity but spicy and obviously bold. Given my relative inexperience with this wonderful wine, take my rating with more than just the usual pinch of salt. But do not wait until 2025 and remember to do what I do: keep it cold in the refrigerator to tone down the sweetness. The wine is distributed in Italy by Masciarelli Distribuzione.

About it