2009 Fladgate Vintage Collection (Taylor, Croft, Fonseca)

An unmissable chance to taste an outstanding line-up of Ports from the 2009 vintage from Taylor-Fladgate Partnership which which comprises the celebrated Port houses of Taylor, Fonseca and Croft. Fladgate rated 2009  as "a vintage of massive scale, not unlike the iconic vintage ports of the early twentieth century."

1 bottle each of:

Taylor 2009
The major share-holders here are, as usual, Quinta de Vargellas and Quinta de Terra Feita. Vargellas is located in the hotter eastern sector and it is significant that the selected grapes were farmed on the higher terraces, preserving acidity and balance in addition to the traditional aromatics of violet, ripe blackberry and herbs. Taylor is always a treat for senses and intellect alike, its synaesthetic appeal the fruits of ancient vines and traditional vinification. David Guimaraens, Head Winemaker, is delighted with the wine and praises both its grip and its overall complexity. We concur!
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)

Fonseca 2009
Reduced yields, especially at the flagship Quinta do Panascal, explain the uncompromising colour and sheer weight of flavour here, with floral aromatics leading to a palate dominated by dark fruits, chocolate and licorice. Rich and hedonistic, this is authoritative and powerful at the back of the mouth and finishes with aplomb.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)

Croft 2009
Now in its tenth year of Fladgate ownership, Croft is 100% farmed from the magnificent terraced Quinta da Roêda close to Pinhão and is now also 100% foot-trodden. After a slight dip in 2007, this wine returns to the benchmark set in 2003. A nose of resin, ripe black cherry and gum-cistus cedes to a surprisingly elegant palate, with firm acidity and grippy slightly drying tannins at the finish.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)