Deep amber-garnet-tawny color; dried figs, dried dates, dried apricot, hazelnut, almond, caramel, butterscotch, orange peel, honey, cedar, nutty aromas and flavors, oak on the nose and palate.
Sweet (111.17 g/L, slightly less sweet than its peers); balancing acidity (5.3 g/L, likely 3.4-3.6 pH). Fine tannins. Silky mouthfeel. Medium body. Complex, mellow flavors evolve in the mouth. Made using superior grapes from the Cima Corgo and Douro Superior regions of Portugal’s Douro Valley. This is the best-selling 20 year old tawny porto in the United States for a reason. 20% ABV
Portos are a blend of grapes, with touriga nacional taking the lead. After fermentation is partially completed at the winery—a very critical moment in porto—a special brandy (77% ABV) or aguardente (literally “firewater” or “burning water”—made from white wine chosen for clean, neutral character and good acidity) is added to stop fermentation, preserve residual sugar, and elevate the alcohol level to that desired for finished porto: 19-22% ABV. The wine then is shipped to Taylor Fladgate’s lodge (cellar) in Vila Nova de Gaia (across the Douro River from Porto) where it is finished. Finishing is a process that can take decades. In this case, the wines were in barrel for an average of 20 years. The 20 years refers to an average age—some of the wine is younger, some is older.
Taylor Fladgate is classic porto maker, one of the most respected porto houses in Portugal. Established in 1692, Taylor Fladgate is one of the oldest founding porto houses. It only makes porto. They are renowned for their wood-aged portos and hold one of the largest reserves of rare cask-aged wines, from which it makes it acclaimed tawny portos.
Taylor Fladgate is family owned. The website notes: “Above all, Taylor Fladgate is an independent company in which some family members play a leading role in all areas of the firm’s activity. The firm’s long and unbroken family tradition has provided continuity and clarity of purpose, essential attributes of any great wine house. It has also allowed the skills and knowledge required to produce the finest ports to be constantly refined and added to in the light of experience as they are passed down from one generation to the next.”
Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Old Tawny Porto is a classic 20 year tawny made in distinctive Taylor Fladgate style. The same can be said of their 10 year tawny, reflecting historic and admirable consistency. Complex, nuanced, rich, delicious, mellow. Very impressive length. Although 20% ABV, the seductive smoothness smothers any hint of hotness, something to beware as you pour your third porto glass. $56
Pairing—Excellent dessert wine, particularly paired with those featuring caramel, nuts, fruit. Walnuts, roasted almonds; apple pie served with warm caramel sauce. Tiramisu, coffee-flavored cheesecake, espresso crème brûlée. Dark chocolate, dark chocolate truffles. Cheese—superbly versatile with cheese; mature farmhouse cheddar (classic); white cheddar, comté, gouda, manchego; brie, fromage d’affinois; havarti, gruyère, pecorino.
Taylor Fladgate website, good video
