Taylor Port Black

Discover Taylor Port Black:

Taylor Port Black is a rich and indulgent fortified wine that offers a unique and sophisticated drinking experience. This exquisite drink is crafted by Taylor Fladgate, one of the most esteemed and historic port houses in Portugal, renowned for their expertise in producing exceptional ports.

Taylor Port Black is made from a blend of carefully selected grapes, predominantly Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz, which are grown in the Douro Valley, a region known for its ideal climate and terroir for producing high-quality grapes. These grapes are handpicked at the peak of ripeness, ensuring optimal flavor and character.

The winemaking process begins with the grapes being gently crushed and fermented in traditional granite lagares, large open tanks where the grape skins are macerated with the juice, extracting color, tannins, and aromas. This process imparts a deep, intense color and complex flavors to the wine.

After fermentation, the wine is fortified with a neutral grape spirit, which stops the fermentation process and preserves the natural sweetness of the grapes. This fortification also increases the alcohol content, typically reaching around 20% ABV (alcohol by volume). The wine is then aged in oak barrels for an extended period, allowing it to develop its distinctive character and smoothness.

Taylor Port Black boasts a luscious, dark ruby color with a captivating aroma that combines ripe black fruits, such as blackberries and black cherries, with hints of spices, chocolate, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it offers a velvety texture and a harmonious balance between sweetness and acidity. The flavors are rich and complex, with layers of dark fruits, plum, figs, and a touch of caramel, culminating in a long, satisfying finish.

This port is best enjoyed slightly chilled, allowing its flavors to fully express themselves. It pairs exceptionally well with rich, dark chocolate desserts, blue cheeses, or can be savored on its own as a delightful after-dinner drink. Its sweetness and depth make it a perfect choice for those seeking a luxurious and indulgent experience.

Producer Notes: Taylor Fladgate

Taylor Fladgate is a renowned drinks producer specializing in the production of premium Port wines. Established in 1692, Taylor Fladgate is one of the oldest and most esteemed Port houses in the Douro Valley region of Portugal. The company is located in Vila Nova de Gaia, a city situated on the banks of the Douro River, just across from the city of Porto.

Taylor Fladgate is widely recognized for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship in producing Port wines. They are known for their commitment to traditional winemaking methods, combined with a dedication to innovation and modern techniques. The company owns extensive vineyards in the Douro Valley, where they cultivate a variety of grape varietals, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca, among others.

The flagship product of Taylor Fladgate is their range of Vintage Ports. These are produced only in exceptional years, when the grapes reach the highest level of quality. Vintage Ports are known for their intense flavors, rich complexity, and ability to age gracefully for decades. Taylor Fladgate Vintage Ports are highly sought after by collectors and wine enthusiasts worldwide.

In addition to Vintage Ports, Taylor Fladgate also produces other styles of Port wines, including Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Ports, Tawny Ports, and Ruby Ports. LBV Ports are aged for a longer period in oak casks before bottling, resulting in a smoother and more approachable style. Tawny Ports are aged in oak barrels for extended periods, developing a nutty and caramelized character. Ruby Ports are young and vibrant, showcasing the fresh fruit flavors of the grapes.

Taylor Fladgate is also known for its association with other renowned Port houses, such as Fonseca and Croft, under the umbrella of The Fladgate Partnership. This partnership allows for the sharing of expertise, resources, and vineyards, further enhancing the quality and diversity of their Port wines.

In recent years, Taylor Fladgate has expanded its portfolio beyond Port wines. They have introduced a range of premium Douro wines, made from grapes grown in the same region as their Port vineyards. These wines showcase the unique terroir of the Douro Valley and offer a different expression of the region’s winemaking heritage.