Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2013 Port

Introduction

Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2013 Port represents the pinnacle of Portugal’s winemaking heritage, crafted by a family-owned house whose tradition in the Douro Valley dates back to 1880. This exceptional vintage captures both the distinctive terroir of the region and the meticulous craftsmanship that defines premium port production.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Hand-selected indigenous grape varieties (primarily Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz) from old vines in the Douro Valley’s schist soils.
• Distillation process: Traditional foot-treading in granite lagares to extract optimal color and tannin, followed by fermentation interrupted by the addition of grape spirit.
• Maturation: Initially aged for two years in large oak vats before bottling, then undergoes extended bottle aging to develop complexity and character.
• Special techniques: Declaration of vintage only in exceptional years when grape quality meets strict standards, ensuring the 2013 represents the true character of that specific growing season.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intense aromas of ripe blackberries, black cherries, and plums intertwined with hints of violet, dark chocolate, and subtle balsamic notes.
• Palate: Concentrated flavors of black forest fruits, cassis, and fig preserves balanced with nuances of spice, licorice, and cocoa powder. Powerful yet elegant structure with velvety tannins.
• Finish: Long and persistent finish with layers of dark fruit, mocha, and mineral notes that continue to evolve, showcasing the wine’s depth and aging potential.

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
• Glass recommendation: Traditional port glass or small tulip-shaped wine glass
• Serving ideas: Decant for 1-2 hours before serving to allow the complex aromas and flavors to fully develop
• Food pairings: Exceptional with dark chocolate desserts, blue cheeses like Stilton, dried fruits and nuts, or as a contemplative digestif after dinner

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 20.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 75cl
• Country/Region of origin: Douro Valley, Portugal
• Certifications/Awards: Certified by the Port Wine Institute (IVDP), recipient of multiple gold medals in international wine competitions

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2013 represents an exceptional year when perfect growing conditions aligned to create a port of remarkable concentration and finesse.

With limited bottles produced and the 2013 vintage becoming increasingly scarce, this port offers both immediate pleasure and excellent cellaring potential for decades to come.

Created under the watchful eye of master blenders whose expertise has been recognized by leading wine authorities, this port meets the exacting standards that have established Portugal’s reputation for world-class fortified wines.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Wine critics and port enthusiasts consistently praise Vasques de Carvalho for their commitment to traditional methods and authentic expression of vintage character.

Collectors who invest in Vasques de Carvalho vintages often return for subsequent releases, demonstrating their appreciation for the house’s consistent quality and distinctive style.

The 2013 vintage has garnered particular acclaim for its perfect balance of power and elegance, securing its place among the standout ports of the decade.

From Douro Valley to You

Each bottle of Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2013 offers a genuine taste of Portugal’s winemaking heritage, sharing generations of expertise and passion with every pour.

The approachable yet complex character of this port makes it equally appealing to seasoned port aficionados and those new to the category looking to explore premium expressions.

By choosing this exceptional vintage port, you join a community of discerning enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry behind Portugal’s most celebrated wine tradition – discover why the 2013 vintage deserves a special place in your collection today.