Borges Soalheira Vintage 2017 Port

Introduction

Borges Soalheira Vintage 2017 Port represents the pinnacle of Portuguese winemaking tradition, capturing the exceptional character of a standout harvest year that wine critics have widely recognized as one of the finest of the decade in the Douro Valley.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Hand-selected indigenous grape varieties including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz from old vines grown on the steep schist terraces of the Douro Valley
• Distillation process: Traditional foot-treading in granite lagares followed by careful fermentation until the precise moment when grape spirit is added to halt fermentation
• Maturation: Aged for two years in large oak casks before bottling, with continued development in the bottle
• Special techniques: Production follows the strictest regulations of the Port Wine Institute, ensuring authenticity and excellence

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intense aromas of ripe blackberries, black cherries, and plums complemented by hints of violet, chocolate, and subtle spice notes
• Palate: Full-bodied with concentrated flavors of dark forest fruits, cocoa, and fig, balanced by firm tannins and a complex structure
• Finish: Long and persistent with layers of dark chocolate, spice, and a touch of minerality that reflects the unique terroir of the Douro

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
• Glass recommendation: Traditional port glass or small wine glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Decant for 2-3 hours before serving to allow the wine to fully express its complex character
• Food pairings: Excellent with dark chocolate desserts, blue cheeses like Stilton, or traditional Portuguese almond tarts; also perfect as a contemplative after-dinner drink

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 19.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 75cl
• Country/Region of origin: Portugal, Douro Valley
• Certifications/Awards: Certified by the Port Wine Institute (IVDP) as a true Vintage Port from the exceptional 2017 harvest

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Borges Soalheira Vintage 2017 represents a convergence of perfect growing conditions and centuries of winemaking expertise, creating a port of exceptional depth and character.

As a declared vintage from one of the most acclaimed years in recent Douro history, bottles of this remarkable port are inherently limited and will only become more scarce as collectors secure their allocations.

The Port Wine Institute’s rigorous certification confirms this as a genuine vintage port, adhering to the strictest traditional methods that have made Portuguese fortified wines renowned worldwide.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Wine enthusiasts and critics alike have celebrated the 2017 vintage ports for their exceptional concentration, structure, and aging potential.

Collectors who have previously invested in Borges vintage ports consistently return for new releases, recognizing the winery’s unwavering commitment to quality across generations.

The distinctive character of this 2017 vintage stands as testament to why vintage ports from established producers remain among the most sought-after treasures in fine wine collections worldwide.

From Portuguese Terraced Vineyards to You

Each bottle of Borges Soalheira Vintage 2017 honors the immense labor of the vineyard workers who tend the precipitous slopes of the Douro Valley by hand, preserving traditions that stretch back centuries.

The deep ruby color, captivating aromatics, and harmonious balance make this port an irresistible addition to any gathering of friends or family appreciating life’s finer moments together.

By choosing this exceptional vintage port, you join a community of discerning enthusiasts who understand that these bottles represent not just a beverage, but a living piece of Portugal’s cultural heritage that deserves to be celebrated and shared.