1970 Taylor’s Single Harvest Port

BY NEAL MARTIN | JUNE 08, 2020

Writing this on what is fast becoming the most glorious warm spring here in the UK, it feels slightly odd to be focusing upon a fortified wine associated with winter. Nevertheless, several Port houses have declared single-quinta 2018s that shall be reviewed soon on Vinous.

In addition, Taylor Fladgate has recently released a 1970 Single Harvest Port, the seventh in a series of limited-edition 50-year-old colheitas, aged in the Taylor Fladgate cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia, that comes suitably attired in a frosted glass bottle and beech wood box. Released from the end of May this year, it does not come cheap, at £220 per bottle. Maybe a little deeper in color than expected, deep mahogany with very slight green tints on the rim, it has a striking bouquet of dried quince, camphor, a touch of furniture polish and grilled walnuts, and later just a touch of espresso. The palate is medium-bodied with a spicy opening: Chinese five-spice, cloves, satsuma and orange zest, then touches of California raisins and Medjool dates. Smooth and very sensual, this is a tempting and moreish Port with hedonistic flair. 95/Drink 2020-2050.