Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2016 Port

Introduction

Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2016 Port represents the pinnacle of Portuguese winemaking tradition, crafted during a year that yielded exceptional grapes in the Douro Valley. This artisanal offering captures both the essence of a remarkable harvest and generations of port-making expertise.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Hand-selected indigenous Portuguese grape varieties (primarily Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz) from old vines in the steep terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley
• Distillation process: Traditional foot-treading in granite lagares to ensure gentle extraction of color and tannins, followed by fortification with grape spirit
• Maturation: Initially aged for two years in large oak vats before bottling, then further aging in bottle where it continues to develop complexity
• Special techniques: Produced only in years declared as “vintage” years, when growing conditions are exceptional, ensuring superior quality and aging potential

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intense aromas of ripe blackberries, black cherries, and plums with subtle hints of violets, dark chocolate, and spice
• Palate: Full-bodied with concentrated flavors of rich black fruits, dark chocolate, and coffee, balanced by firm tannins and vibrant acidity
• Finish: Long and persistent with lingering notes of dried fruits, spices, and a touch of licorice that continues to evolve with each sip

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
• Glass recommendation: Traditional port glass or a small wine glass with a slightly narrowed rim
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed after dinner in good company; can be decanted 2-3 hours before serving for optimal expression
• Food pairings: Exceptional with strong blue cheeses (Stilton, Roquefort), dark chocolate desserts, dried fruits and nuts, or Portuguese pastries like pastel de nata

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 20.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 75cl
• Country/Region of origin: Portugal, Douro Valley
• Certifications/Awards: Highly rated by major wine critics; from a vintage universally declared as exceptional across the Douro Valley

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Vasques de Carvalho Vintage 2016 Port represents an extraordinary convergence of perfect growing conditions and centuries-old winemaking tradition.

This limited production vintage port is only produced in exceptional years, making each bottle a rare treasure that will become increasingly scarce as collectors secure their allocations.

Respected wine critics have highlighted the 2016 vintage as one of the finest in recent decades, confirming the exceptional quality of this prestigious offering.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Port enthusiasts and wine collectors worldwide have embraced the 2016 vintage as one of the standout years for Portuguese fortified wines.

Connoisseurs who have invested in previous Vasques de Carvalho vintages continue to seek out each new release, recognizing the consistent excellence this producer delivers.

The growing international acclaim for boutique Douro producers like Vasques de Carvalho reflects the increasing appreciation for authentic, traditionally-crafted port wines.

From Douro Valley to You

By choosing this exceptional vintage port, you’re receiving a genuine piece of Portuguese heritage that represents generations of winemaking knowledge and dedication.

The family behind Vasques de Carvalho has devoted their lives to perfecting their craft, creating wines that inspire authentic moments of connection and celebration.

Join the community of discerning port enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry behind this traditional Portuguese treasure and experience a taste of the Douro Valley’s finest expression.