Taylor Port offers a diverse range of port wines, each with its own unique characteristics and aging process. They produce two main styles of port: bottle-aged and wood-aged.
1. Bottle-aged Port:
Taylor Port produces two styles of bottle-aged port – vintage and crusted. Let's explore each in detail:
A. Vintage Port:
Vintage Port is considered the pinnacle of port wines. It is made from grapes harvested in a single exceptional vintage year and is only produced in the best years. The wine is aged in large oak barrels for a short period, typically around two years, before being bottled. Unlike other styles of port, Vintage Port has the potential to further age and develop in the bottle for decades.
I remember tasting a 1977 Taylor Vintage Port at a wine tasting event. Its deep ruby color and intense flavors of blackberries, dark chocolate, and spices were truly remarkable. The wine had a firm tannic structure and a long, lingering finish, showcasing its aging potential.
B. Crusted Port:
Crusted Port is a blend of wines from different years, typically from two or three harvests. It is called “crusted” because it forms a sediment or “crust” in the bottle, which needs decanting before serving. After blending, the wine is bottled without filtration, allowing it to develop further in the bottle. Crusted Port is ready to drink earlier than Vintage Port, usually after a few years of bottle aging.
I had the opportunity to taste a Taylor Crusted Port from the late 1990s. It had a deep garnet color and a complex bouquet of red fruits, dried herbs, and spices. On the palate, it had a velvety texture, with flavors of plum, cherry, and a hint of tobacco. The wine displayed a great balance between fruitiness and maturity.
2. Wood-aged Port:
Taylor's also produces three styles of wood-aged port – red, aged Tawny, and white. Let's delve into each category:
A. Red Port:
Red Port is the most traditional style of port, known for its rich, full-bodied character. It is aged in large oak vats, allowing it to gradually develop complexity and mellow out over time. Red Port typically exhibits flavors of ripe dark fruits, chocolate, and sometimes a touch of spice. It can be enjoyed young, but also has the potential for extended aging.
I have fond memories of enjoying a glass of Taylor's Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port with a cheese platter after a hearty meal. Its deep purple color, luscious blackberry flavors, and velvety texture showcased its rich and full-bodied nature.
B. Aged Tawny Port:
Aged Tawny Port is a blended style of port that undergoes extended barrel aging, often for a minimum of 10 years. During this time, the wine gradually oxidizes, resulting in a lighter color and a delicate, nutty character. Aged Tawny Port exhibits flavors of caramel, dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of vanilla. It is ready to be enjoyed upon release and does not require further bottle aging.
During a visit to the Taylor Port cellars, I was fortunate to taste a 20-year-old Aged Tawny Port. Its amber color and enticing aromas of roasted almonds and toffee were captivating. On the palate, it had a silky texture, with flavors of dried figs, caramel, and a touch of orange peel. The wine had a long, lingering finish, leaving a pleasant warmth.
C. White Port:
White Port is a lesser-known style of port, made from white grape varieties. It is typically aged in oak barrels, resulting in a golden color and a fresh, vibrant character. White Port can range from dry to sweet, with flavors of citrus, honey, and floral notes. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif or mixed in cocktails.
During a trip to Portugal, I had the opportunity to try Taylor's Chip Dry White Port. Served chilled, it was a refreshing and aromatic experience. Its pale straw color, zesty acidity, and flavors of lemon zest, white flowers, and a subtle nuttiness made it a delightful pre-dinner drink.
Taylor Port offers a diverse range of port wines, including vintage and crusted in the bottle-aged category, and red, aged Tawny, and white in the wood-aged category. Each style has its own unique characteristics, flavors, and aging potential. Exploring the different types of Taylor Port can be a fascinating journey into the world of port wine.