In the half century they spend in seasoned oak casks in Taylor`s cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, these limited-edition wines slowly mature, developing rich, enticing aromas and a wonderful complexity of flavour. The 1969 release is slightly smoky, subtle and elegant on the nose, while the palate retains that desirably sticky, sweet fruit that leads into rich notes of coffee and butterscotch. And yet there is still plenty of freshness and acidity to lift and balance that intense depth of flavour. This tawny can be served according to tradition alongside a strong cheese like Stilton but would also work brilliantly with something rich and sweet like crème brûlée or a dark chocolate mousse.

The early part of the 1969 growing season was troublesome as poor flowering and an early attack of mildew in June greatly reduced the crop. The Summer was hot and dry so fruit development and ripening were slow, even through early September. Mid-September rain hastened things along a little but harvest was late and small. Very good wines were made but the only wine in sufficient quantity at the time for Taylor to declare was Vargellas. (RRS 18/02/19)

Producer

Taylor

Origin

Douro, Port/vintage port, Fortifieds PORTUGAL

Colour

red

Wine Style

sweet

Dominant Grape

Touriga Nacional blend

Closure Style

cork

Maturity

ready

Bottle Size

75cl

Case Quantity

6

Alcohol

20.5%

Wine Score

16 points, Jancis Robinson MW, jancisrobinson.com, February 2019