2019 Quinta do Vallado Vintage Port Douro

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Wine Spectator - "This is a dark and gutsy-style Vintage Port, with loads of fig, black currant and blackberry fruit flavors melding together with waves of ganache, roasted applewood, licorice snap and bramble notes. Everything seems to kick into another gear through the finish too, all while keeping a sense of detail. Impressive. Best from 2040 through 2060."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "The 2019 Vintage Port (formerly called "Vintage Port Adelaide," now rebranded, but it's the same wine) is a field blend from old vines aged only in stainless steel. It was bottled in August 2021 with 96 grams of residual sugar. If I thought the 2017 LBV this issue was tight, this demonstrates another level. Of course, that's not surprising because this is actually a Vintage Port and a younger vintage at that. Intense, pure and a bit astringent right now, this young Vintage Port is precise and finishes with a bang. The rich fruit rolls over the palate and coats it. Considering the lack of wood, this has remarkable texture. What it needs now is some time to evolve and become more expressive. I'd come back around the end of the decade, although that might not be enough. It took about four days to become interesting. The LBV shows better today, but that will certainly change as the years go by."


Wine Enthusiast - "From old vines in the Rio Torto valley, this Port, fermented in open top lagares, is just starting out. It has dense tannins and massive black-fruit flavors. There is the hint of a floral element, blackberry jelly and dark spice. At the end, there is a touch of sweetness. That and the tannins will lead the wine forward. Drink from 2030."