Vargellas Vinha Velha2004
The 2003/2004 winter was very dry, having only rained 1/3 of the quantity registered the previous winter. The lack of water during the early part of the growing season led to very little pressure from disease.
Our concern in July was mainly one of doubting the vines capacity to ripen the grapes due to the drastic shortage of water.
The vintage stood out for the perfect weather conditions for the whole period. The young Ports show good structure with very fresh berry fruit aromas, resulting from the cooler than normal ripening period.
TASTING NOTES
Massively concentrated wine with intense black fruit and dark bitter chocolate aromas. Gives the impression of an enormous brooding wine waiting to express itself. Fills the mouth to bursting – almost overwhelming in its intensity. An array of flavours then hit the senses – dark bitter chocolate, ripe, rich black plum, cherry, blueberries and blackberry jam. The wine is chewy, fleshy, full of grip. Although the structure is big the balance is finely tuned, so the sensation is of a wine with enormous force, but also great finesse and elegance. Flavours of cassis, blackberries, liquorice and molasses tantalize the palate, with a finish that is deliciously and pleasingly long.
