Quinta da Roeda forms the backbone of the Croft Vintage Porto, produced only in years when vineyard conditions are optimal and warrant a “declared vintage.” Wines from Quinta da Roeda are characteristically plump, full and vigorously fruity, with the hallmark aroma of the gum cistus bush—a character that informs the Croft house style. The grapes are trod by foot in granite lagares to minimize the release of harsh, bitter compounds from skins and seeds, and the wine spends two years aging in vat before bottling. Croft Vintage Porto will continue to develop in the bottle and may be cellared for decades before opening.

Tasting notes

Elegant and refined in the Croft style, the house?svintage ports are characterized by cool, integrated black fruit, firm acidic structure and a reticent backbone in youth, gaining grace, complexity and lovely fruit and coffee complexity with age.

Rating

Wine Spectator 88 points (May 15 2003) A harmonious Port. Very grapey, with a hint of tar and dried roses. Medium-bodied, medium sweet, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Not a great Croft, but pleasant. Best after 2008. 7,300 cases made. –JS

Food pairing

Pair with aged cheeses or desserts made with dark chocolate.