Taylor Port produces two main types of Port wine: bottle-aged and wood-aged.
1. Bottle-aged Port:
A. Vintage Port: This is the most prestigious and sought-after style of Port wine. It is made from a single exceptional harvest and is only produced in the best years. Vintage Ports are known for their rich, concentrated flavors and ability to age for decades. These wines are typically aged in large oak barrels for a short period before being bottled, where they continue to mature and develop in the bottle. Vintage Ports are often decanted before serving to remove any sediment that may have formed during aging.
B. Crusted Port: Crusted Port is a blend of wines from different vintages. It is called “crusted” because it forms a crust or sediment in the bottle over time. Crusted Ports are not filtered or fined before bottling, so they require decanting to separate the wine from the sediment. This style of Port offers a more affordable alternative to Vintage Port, as it combines the complexity of multiple vintages with a lower price point.
2. Wood-aged Port:
A. Red Port: Red Port is the most widely consumed style of Port. It is a blend of different grape varieties and is aged in large wooden casks for a number of years. Red Ports are known for their rich, full-bodied flavors and are often enjoyed as a dessert wine. They can range in style from sweet to dry, with varying levels of fruitiness and tannins.
B. Aged Tawny Port: Aged Tawny Ports are made from a blend of wines that have been aged in wooden casks for an extended period. These Ports are characterized by their amber color and smooth, mellow flavors. Aged Tawny Ports are often labeled with an indication of the average age of the blend, such as 10, 20, 30, or even 40 years. The aging process in wooden casks imparts nutty and caramelized flavors to the wine, resulting in a more complex and nuanced profile.
C. White Port: White Port is made from white grape varieties and is aged in wooden casks. It is typically a lighter and drier style of Port compared to its red counterparts. White Ports can be enjoyed on their own as an aperitif or mixed with tonic water as a refreshing summer drink. They can range from bone dry to slightly sweet, offering a versatile range of options for different preferences.
Each style of Taylor Port offers a unique flavor profile and experience, catering to a variety of tastes and occasions. Whether you prefer the intensity and longevity of Vintage Port, the affordability and complexity of Crusted Port, or the versatility of the wood-aged styles, there is a Taylor Port to suit every wine lover's preference.