Frequently Asked Questions
Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port is a rare and luxurious expression of Portugal's winemaking legacy, showcasing the pinnacle of Tawny Port craftsmanship. This exceptional blend of aged Ports, with an average age of 40 years, undergoes meticulous aging in seasoned oak casks at Taylor Fladgate's renowned cellars in the Douro Valley. Its stunning olive-gold hue reflects decades of evolution, while its complex aroma reveals layers of dried fruit, honey, nutmeg, and roasted coffee. On the palate, it boasts an intense, velvety texture with notes of caramelized nuts, marmalade, and spices, culminating in a remarkably long finish. Ideal for pairing with desserts like crème brûlée, figs, or aged cheeses, this Tawny Port is best served slightly chilled to fully appreciate its intricate flavors and smooth, viscous profile. Perfect for savoring alone or elevating any special occasion, Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port embodies elegance and tradition.
Process & Profile
- Origin: Produced in the Douro Valley, Portugal, from traditional red grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca.
- Aging: Blended from wines aged an average of 40 years in seasoned oak casks, undergoing slow oxidation that concentrates flavors and softens the texture.
- Fortification: Fermentation is halted by adding grape spirit, retaining residual sugar (125g/L) and balancing sweetness with acidity.
- Appearance: Intense amber-tawny color with golden highlights, reflecting its decades in barrel.
Tasting Notes
- Aroma: Voluptuous bouquet of dried figs, caramel, toasted hazelnuts, marmalade, and espresso, with hints of vanilla and spice.
- Palate: Silky, rich, and full-bodied, featuring flavors of raisin, plum, almond croissant, and dark chocolate, balanced by a touch of salinity.
- Finish: Exceptionally long, with lingering notes of orange zest, butterscotch, and a subtle tannic grip for structure.
What Makes It Special
- Rarity: Limited production due to the extended aging process and evaporation loss ("Angels' Share").
- Complexity: Decades in oak yield unmatched depth, with tertiary flavors like leather, tobacco, and molasses.
- Awards: Consistently rated 95+ points by top critics, including *James Suckling* (96pts) and *Falstaff* (98pts).
- Legacy: Taylor Fladgate's centuries-old expertise ensures precision in blending for consistency across vintages.
How to Enjoy
- Serving Temperature: Best slightly chilled (58–62°F / 14–17°C) to highlight its balance.
- Glassware: Use a tulip-shaped port glass to concentrate aromas.
- Pairings:
- Occasion: Ideal for post-dinner sipping or as a luxurious gift for collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port special?
This exceptional wine has been aged for an average of 40 years in seasoned oak casks, resulting in a rich, complex flavor profile. The extended aging process concentrates the wine, delivering intense aromas of dried fruits, honey, and spices, with notes of nutmeg, roasted coffee, and a luscious, almost viscous texture.
How should I serve Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port?
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Tawny Port slightly chilled, between 58°F and 62°F. This temperature accentuates its complex aromas and velvety texture. While it doesn't need decanting, allowing it to sit in a glass for a few moments enhances its bouquet.
What is the flavor profile of this wine?
The 40 Year Tawny Port offers a complex medley of flavors, including nutty and spicy notes, dried fruits, honey, roasted coffee, and subtle spice like nutmeg. It has a rich, intense, and silky finish that lingers on the palate.
How long can I keep an opened bottle of Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port?
Thanks to its fortification and aging, this wine remains fresh for up to four months after opening if stored properly in a cool, dark place with the cork tightly replaced. However, it's best to enjoy within a few weeks to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors.
Does this wine improve with further aging in the bottle?
No additional aging in the bottle is necessary. The Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port has already been aged to perfection in oak casks, and its flavor profile is fully developed when bottled.
What foods pair well with the 40 Year Tawny Port?
This wine pairs wonderfully with an array of desserts, such as crème brûlée, almond tarts, and dark chocolate. It also complements savory options like aged cheeses, nuts, and even salty cured meats. For a luxurious experience, enjoy it on its own as a digestif.
What is the significance of "40 Years" on the label?
The "40 Years" indicates the average age of the wines used in the blend. Some portions of the wine may be older, while others are slightly younger, carefully combined to achieve a consistent flavor profile.
Can I store this wine for an extended period after purchase?
Yes, as long as it is stored upright in a cool, dark place. While additional aging won't enhance its flavors significantly, it can be kept for many years unopened without deterioration.
What is the origin of Taylor Fladgate 40 Year Tawny Port?
This wine is crafted in the Douro Valley in Portugal, a region renowned for its winemaking tradition. The grapes used are sourced from Taylor Fladgate's vineyards and undergo meticulous fortification and aging processes in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Is this Port a good gift for special occasions?
Absolutely! With its exquisite quality and luxurious presentation, this rare 40 Year Tawny Port makes a perfect gift for connoisseurs, collectors, or to mark milestones such as anniversaries and celebrations.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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