Croft Reserve Ruby Port

Tasting Notes and Characteristics:

Croft Reserve Ruby Port is a fortified wine that hails from the Douro Valley in Portugal, an area renowned for its steep terraced vineyards and optimal conditions for cultivating the grape varieties essential to port wine production. This particular ruby port is a blend of indigenous grapes, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz (also known as Tempranillo), and Tinto Cão.

The vinification process of Croft Reserve Ruby Port involves fermentation under controlled temperatures until the desired level of sweetness is achieved. At this critical juncture, grape spirit (aguardente) is added to halt fermentation and preserve the natural sugars of the grape. This fortification creates an alcohol content typically between 19% to 22%, giving ruby port its characteristic richness and vigor.

In terms of maturation, Croft Reserve Ruby Port distinguishes itself by aging in large oak vats for an average period which can range from two to three years. This relatively brief aging process compared to tawny or vintage ports allows it to retain its deep red coloration—hence ‘ruby’—and ensures that the fruit flavors remain vibrant and pronounced.

Upon tasting, one can expect a symphony of ripe red fruit notes such as strawberry, raspberry, and cherry underscored by subtle hints of chocolate and spice due to its time in wood. The palate experience is marked by a balanced sweetness complemented by a robust structure leading into a finish that lingers with fruity persistence.

Producer Information:Croft

Nestled in the verdant, rolling hills of Portugal’s Douro Valley, Croft stands as a beacon of tradition and quality in the world of winemaking. With roots tracing back to 1588, this venerable producer is one of the oldest and most respected names in Port wine—a sweet, fortified wine that has become synonymous with luxury and celebration.

Croft is particularly renowned for its Vintage Ports, which are crafted only in years when the grape harvest is exceptional. These wines are treasured for their depth, complexity, and potential to age gracefully over decades. The Quinta da Roêda estate, often referred to as the jewel of Port vineyards, is where much of Croft’s magic happens. Here, under the watchful eye of time-honored techniques and modern innovation alike, grapes such as Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca are transformed into luscious wines with rich berry flavors.

Beyond their famed Vintage Ports, Croft also produces other styles like Tawny Port—known for its nutty character and amber hue—as well as Ruby Port which dazzles with its vibrant red color and fruity palate. Each style offers a unique window into the terroir of the Douro Valley and reflects Croft’s unwavering commitment to excellence.