2016 Graham’s Vintage Port, Douro

Extremely complex aromas that show the classic Graham character of black-fruit marmalade and burnt oranges. Follows through to a full body with great grip at the finish. Lightly sweet. Chewy and powerful. Such a focus at the end.

99 points jamessuckling.com

Graham’s Vintage Port from the Douro Valley is one of the most esteemed expressions of classic Portuguese fortified wine, renowned for its richness, depth, and longevity. Founded in 1820, Graham’s has built a reputation for producing some of the finest Vintage Ports, sourced from the family’s top vineyards, including Quinta dos Malvedos, Quinta do Tua, and Quinta da Vila Velha. These sites, with their steep schistous terraces and sun-drenched conditions, produce grapes of exceptional intensity and concentration.

Deep, almost opaque purple in color, Graham’s Vintage Port is intensely aromatic, offering layers of ripe blackberry, cassis, and plum, interwoven with notes of violets, dark chocolate, and exotic spices. The palate is full-bodied and luscious, delivering powerful dark fruit flavors balanced by firm yet velvety tannins and fresh acidity. Subtle hints of licorice, black pepper, and mocha add complexity, leading to an incredibly long, structured finish with lingering notes of sweet spice and dried fruit.

A true collector’s wine, Graham’s Vintage Port is built for aging, with the ability to develop remarkable complexity over 30 to 50 years. As it matures, the fruit evolves into more delicate dried fig, caramel, and nutty characteristics, making it an exceptional long-term investment.

This Port is the perfect accompaniment to blue cheeses like Stilton or Roquefort, dark chocolate desserts, and roasted nuts. It also pairs beautifully with a fine cigar or enjoyed on its own as a luxurious after-dinner indulgence. Decanting is recommended when young to allow the wine to fully open up.

Graham’s commitment to traditional winemaking, combined with modern precision, ensures that each Vintage Port release remains a benchmark for quality and excellence in the Douro Valley.