In Bond Fine Wine. 2011 Taylor's Vargellas Vinha Velha, Port, Douro, Portugal. Other vintage port in 3x75cl. Top critic score: 98/100 (ST). Drinking window: 2018+. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Neal Martin (NM) — 96–98/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 28/06/2013
As a reminder, the Vinha Vilha is a selection of old vine fruit from the terraces of Polverinho and Renova do Armazem. Comparing it directly with the Taylor's, there is even more complexity and volume on the nose, with black currant, dark plum and a more accentuated crushed stone aroma that lends it wonderful terroir expression. Like the Fonseca, it develops compelling marine scents after 30-40 m…
James Suckling (JS) — 96/100 · JamesSuckling.com, 21/05/2013 · Drink 2022+
Beautiful nose of flowers with plums and cherries; more like a fine table wine on the nose. Full body, medium sweet with super-refined tannins and a long, superb finish. All about finesse here. Only 310 cases produced of this foot-trodden wine from 19th century vines at the Vargellas estate. Try in 2022.
Kim Marcus (KM) — 96/100 · Wine Spectator, 15/10/2013 · Drink 2018-2045
A delicate style, very peppery, featuring lithe flavors of red berry, dark currant and wild plum that are matched with plenty of minerally notes. Tar and dark chocolate accents fill the finish, with plenty of grip. Best from 2018 through 2045.