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Fortified wine | Douro, Portugal
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The 1985 Real Companhia Velha Vintage Port stands as a remarkable testament to the history and dedication of Portugal's oldest wine company, founded in 1756. This vintage was declared in a brilliant year for Port, characterized by a cool spring followed by a glorious, warm, and dry summer, which allowed for perfect ripening of the grapes across the estate's premier 'Class A' vineyards, including the legendary Quinta das Carvalhas.
Upon pouring, this wine reveals a color that has evolved gracefully over the decades, transitioning from a deep, youthful intensity to more complex, mature amber-brown hues. On the nose, it offers a sophisticated bouquet where primary fruit notes have harmoniously melded with tertiary aromas: think sun-dried raisins, roasted nuts, luxurious caramel, and subtle hints of peppery spice that speak to its long maturation. On the palate, it is exceptionally smooth and silky, possessing a richness that coats the mouth, delivering deep flavors of dried fruit, brown sugar, and a touch of toffee. The finish is persistent and elegant, lingering long after the last sip.
At over 35 years of age, this is a wine that has reached a beautiful state of maturity. It is not merely a drink; it is an experience, reflecting the 'Vintage' classification—a designation reserved only for the most exceptional years, representing the absolute pinnacle of what the Douro valley can produce.
To fully appreciate this piece of history, it deserves to be handled with care. We recommend standing the bottle upright for a day to allow any sediment to settle, followed by careful decanting. Allow it to breathe for at least an hour before serving at a cellar temperature of around 16°C.
Regarding food pairings, this wine is a classic companion to rich, indulgent desserts. It finds a perfect partner in a dark chocolate torte, a platter of aged blue cheeses (like Stilton or Roquefort), or even a classic Portuguese dessert like 'Jesuitas' or creamy nut-based pastries. It also stands beautifully on its own as a contemplative 'meditation wine' at the end of a fine meal, allowing you to savor the nuances of its complex history. This 1985 Vintage is an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy a mature, iconic Port from a historic producer, offering immense pleasure to any collector or lover of fine fortified wines.
Port isn't usually my thing, but this one's got depth. The dried fruit and nutty notes are lovely. I'd try it with a strong blue cheese. Quite impressive.