Vintage Port 2009
The Vintage Port 2009 Declaration
"In over three centuries of making great ports, we have seldom
seen four outstanding vintages come along in a decade." He
added, "Like the great landmark vintages of the early twentieth
century, the '09s are built for long term ageing."
Adrian Bridge
CEO, The Fladgate Partnership
"We have not seen colour intensity and tannic grip like this in over
twenty years. In addition the quality of the fruit is impressive
and the wines are supported by excellent acidity."
David Guimaraens
Head Winemaker, The Fladgate Partnership
THE 2009 VINTAGE
This decade sees the fourth Vintage Declaration of the "noughties"
by the major Port Houses. Whilst the cynics may point towards
commercial gain as being the primary motive in this recent
"Declaration", the rational conclusion has to be that they simply
had no choice.
Each vintage has its own character. 2000 is noted for its depth
of colour and richness, 2003 for its solidity and structure and
the 'cooler climate' 2007 for its fresh and elegant characteristics.
2009 is the most powerful, intense and concentrated vintage
many, many years. These massive wines, which Adrian Bridge,
CEO of the Fladgate Partnership, describes as "not unlike the
iconic Vintage Ports of the early 20th Century", are built to last
and should be locked away for a generation.
THE HARVEST REPORT
The past three years have been exceptionally dry in the Duoro, with
many villages sustained only by tanker deliveries from the
volunteer fire brigade. The wells and springs are down to a mere
trickle of water.
A small amount of rain did fall in June 2009, which was very helpful
and the climate remained surprisingly cool through July. The heat
had set in by August reaching 40C on the 13th, and remained very
high well into September.
Whilst the Baume levels were high, the top producers held their
nerve and refrained from sending in the pickers,as the phenolic
ripeness (stalks and pips) was still not sufficient. This resulted in
the berries losing some weight and a subsequent reduction
in yields. Picking was nevertheless still very early (in some cases
early September) and the grapes, though small, were in excellent
condition. The 2009 Vintage has produced outstanding, classic,
long lived wines that will grace any quality cellar for a generation
(or two!)
Ports available to buy in bond
Click Here to download our Vintage Port price list and order form
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