Smith Woodhouse is currently owned by the Symington family, who acquired the firm in 1970. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing the exquisite Ports produced by Smith Woodhouse under the Symingtons' ownership. The Symingtons have maintained the traditional methods of Port production, ensuring that the wines continue to be made with the utmost care and attention to detail.
I have been fortunate enough to taste several vintages of Smith Woodhouse Port, and I must say that they consistently impress me with their opulent and rich style. The wines are full-bodied and decadent, with a depth of flavor that is truly exceptional. The Symingtons have a knack for balancing this richness with firm and hard tannins, which provide structure and longevity to the wines.
One of the things I appreciate most about Smith Woodhouse is their commitment to quality and tradition. The Symingtons have upheld the traditional methods of Port production, which involve foot treading the grapes in granite lagares. This labor-intensive process is believed to extract the best flavors and aromas from the grapes, resulting in a wine of exceptional complexity.
I remember a particular occasion when I had the opportunity to taste a vintage Smith Woodhouse Port from the Symington era. The wine had been decanted for several hours, allowing it to open up and reveal its true character. As I took my first sip, I was immediately struck by the intense flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, and spice. The wine had a velvety texture and a long, lingering finish that left me wanting more.
The Symingtons' ownership of Smith Woodhouse has undoubtedly contributed to the success and reputation of the brand. Their dedication to producing outstanding Vintage Ports in a characteristic style has garnered praise and recognition from wine enthusiasts and critics alike. The Symingtons' commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bottle of Smith Woodhouse Port, making it a favorite among Port lovers around the world.
Smith Woodhouse is currently owned by the Symington family, who acquired the firm in 1970. Under their ownership, Smith Woodhouse continues to produce exceptional Ports using traditional methods. The wines are known for their opulent and rich style, balanced by firm and hard tannins. The Symingtons' commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bottle of Smith Woodhouse Port, making it a true gem in the world of Port wines.