2011 Taylor's, Vargellas Vinha Vehla, Port, Portugal

Description

The Old Vine Vargellas wine was the first and many would argue the best of the now modish deluxe Vintage Ports, 312 cases having been produced in 2011. The World Heritage vineyards of Polverinho and Renova do Armazém plus three other equally scenic old vineyards must take responsibility for this wine. We will be able to provide a full analysis of their efforts half a century down the line.
Suffice it to say now that this is one of the greats; layered and beautifully scented. Gum cistus and blackberry notes dominate the nose, while the palate is hitherto closed, a dense tapestry of potential and poise.
Simon Field MW, Port Buyer

Deep and dark in the glass with a breadth of brooding plum, juicy cassis and ripe blueberry notes, this has a weight of aromatics but surprisingly refreshing charm, thanks to the acidity. The palate has a mouth-filling sweetness with ever-changing complexity of dense flavours. This will last more than a lifetime.
Laura Atkinson, Private Account Manager

Colour Red

Sweetness Luscious

Vintage 2011

Maturity Not ready

Grape List Touriga Nacional,Touriga Francesa,Tinta Barroca,Tinta Roriz,Tinto Cão

Body Full Bodied

Producer Taylor Fladgate

Critics reviews

Neal Martin MW 96-98/100

As a reminder, the Vinha Vilha is a selection of old vine fruit from the terraces of Polverinho and Renova do Armazem. Comparing it directly with the Taylors, there is even more complexity and volume on the nose, with black currant, dark plum and a more accentuated crushed stone aroma that lends it wonderful terroir expression. Like the Fonseca, it develops compelling marine scents after 30-40 minutes in the glass, like stepping over rock pools when you were a kid. The palate is medium-bodied with sumptuous, sensual ripe tannins that layer the mouth. There is a palpable sense of harmony and composure to this Vinha Velha and there is a lot of horsepower, more so than the Taylors, on the multi-dimensional finish. The intensity of fruit means that it does not quite have the same degree of tension as the Taylors, but the depth and breadth of this young Port suggests it will be a seriously long-term fortified wine. Tasted May 2013.Neil Martin - Wine Advocate - Apr 2013

Neal Martin MW, RobertParker.com (Apr 2013)

About this wine

Touriga Nacional

Touriga Nacional is a highly regarded grape variety indigenous to Portugal, often considered the country's flagship red grape. Known for its intense aromas and flavours, the wines typically feature dark fruits such as blackberries, blueberries, and plums, along with distinctive floral notes like violets and hints of spices, herbs, and chocolate. These generally have high tannin levels, good acidity, and deep, dark colour, contributing to their structure and ageing potential.

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