Taylors Vargellas Vintage 2005

 

Because of the cold weather and water shortage, the growing season started later than usual. The whole season was marked by lower vigour and smaller berries in all varieties.

 

From 16 May to 6 September there was almost no rain. Yet despite the extreme heat and drought-like conditions, ripening continued normally, though more slowly than usual. Fortunately, the dry summer was relieved by steady rain between 6 and 9 September, giving the vines much-needed relief and allowing them to complete ripening and deliver a perfectly ripe, balanced crop.

 

Inky black with a narrow purple rim. The nose builds on a robust foundation of rich, powerful blackcurrant, cherry and blackberry aromas, interwoven with notes of apricot and plum. Touches of cedar, rockrose and violet add an exotic, perfumed dimension, the hallmark of Vargellas vintage Ports. On the palate the first impression is restrained and smooth, but the finish reveals a tightly knit weave of vigorous tannins that lifts a powerful wave of rich black-fruit flavours.