Remarkably deep in colour, almost to the verge of being opaque. The nose is very well defined but much more introverted than Fonseca - aloof, stentorian, correct. The palate is full-bodied, beautifully defined, great weight that is channelled in one direction. Brilliant focus here, less extrovert than Fonseca of course but more refined and sophisticated. Certainly this is a Taylors for long-term ageing, one can feel it reserving its energy for 20-years down the line. Great backbone here. Very harmonious towards the finish that really caresses the palate, with a hint of white pepper lingering in the mouth. Wonderful.
The 2007 Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port is a blend of multiple sites meant to express the house style in a great year. It displays a superb aromatic array of pencil lead, Asian spices, incense, blackberry, and floral notes. Dense, suave, and opulent on the palate, this is a mouth-filling, intense, layered wine that has superb grip and concentration. It will effortlessly age for 25+ years and still be delivering pleasure at age 50.
This is a giant of a wine lurking behind fresh flowers and ripe fruit. Starts off in a friendly way, then takes hold of the palate, with intense blueberry and blackberry fruit and chewy yet fine tannins. Mouthpuckering, but impressively complex and long. Really kicks in on the finish. The best Taylor since 1994. Best after 2020. -JS
Violets are the predominant perfume on the nose with behind them a mix of black fruits, blackberry and bilberry. The palate is packed with powerful chewy fruit, all very concentrated. The tannins feel firm and give structure supporting the ripe fleshy fruit.
Serious stuff - just the merest hint of cheesiness but real complexity and almost rough tannins - hurly burly - at this stage. Very vibrant and positive with great length. This wine certainly doesn't follow any formula. Dry - yes, porty - finish. Grown up stuff. Sophisticated and a bit wild.
A classic baby Vintage Port nose of blackberry, currant and a little bit of green lemon leaf. Full-bodied and medium sweet. There's a solid core of ripe fruit and powerful tannins, with grip. The real deal.
Violets, blossom, firm tannins and punchy acidity. Tight-knit core fruit, heady and rich with hints of pepper and wood spice on the very lengthy finish. 20% (RH)