Smith Woodhouse 2016

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Tasting Notes

The 2016 Vintage Port is an equal blend of old vines and Touriga Franca, coming in with 113 grams per liter of residual sugar. Fresher, livelier and lusher than the Warre's this issue—which is the most accessible of the Symington declarations—it is also going to be approachable relatively young. This is a fine Port, but it's not truly made for greatness. If it is not quite as rich and decadent as Warre's, it is more lifted on the finish, with a sunny feel and a more aromatic beginning. I liked them about equally well, but the styles are certainly different. Neither may be the best agers. Bottled in May 2018, there were 1,500 cases produced.

Score: 91

Mark Squires, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2020-2056 19 July 2018

The 2016 Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port represents the best production from the Quinta da Madalena vineyard, where picking did not begin until 28 September. It perhaps just lacks the same intensity and complexity of its peers with black truffle and smoke aromas infusing the black fruit. The palate is well balanced with a spicy, stem ginger tinged opening that shows much more promise than the nose. I admire the tension here, a nimble and agile Vintage Port that gathers weight towards the finish. Fine, but perhaps a more short-term proposition than its peers.

Score: 91

Neal Martin, Vinous.com Maturity: 2021-2035 01 June 2018

This is extremely floral with dark fruit and plum character. Full-bodied, very tight and focused. It's a complete young vintage Port that is great from start to finish. Rio Torto fruit makes this great! Better in 2022.

Score: 96

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com Maturity: 2022+ 29 May 2018

That super-deep Sym crimson again. Very luscious, appealing nose. Smooth and sweet, a sort of cadet to the big guns initially but then freshness and polished tannins (masses of them) kick in. Rather inky, almost bitter on the end. Leathery. (17+ Points)

Score: 17

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2033-2055 25 May 2018

Chunky, juicy and a touch more rustic and spicy than others, this is good fun and it shows the strides forward at this jolly House. Trying to keep up with the big names, and almost making it this is a great effort from this workhorse estate.

Score: 17 - 18

Matthew Jukes, - 01 May 2018