Sandeman, Vau Vintage Porto 2000, Portugal

Tasting Note: A vintage Port with depth and character.

Deep-intensity ruby in color, this wine has an aromatic, pronounced-intensity nose of fig, blackberry preserve, cooked black plum, red cherry, leather, dried blackberry and bramble.

On the palate the sweet, full-bodied vintage Port has medium-plus-intensity, black-fruit flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium acidity and well-integrated, medium-plus tannin ultimately completing with a long finish.

There is midpalate complexity as well as notes of raisin and fig on the finish.

Maturation over time has led to pleasing flavor integration.

Bottle Note: Bottled in 2002. Concentrated ruby colors, intensive aromas and extremely well-balanced, this full and rich Porto presents racy fruit and elegant tannins in the mouth. This vintage Porto is based on the finest wine at Quinta do Vau, our top-rated vineyard in the Douro valley. Careful blending with varietal wines, made by Sandeman from grapes grown for us by our leading farmers result in this full, rich and distinctive Vau Vintage Porto. Vau Vintage is an exceptional quality modern style of Vintage Porto. It can be enjoyed young, but will age well in bottle. With intense fruit aromas, rich fruit flavors reminiscent of plums and red fruits in the mouth, Vau Vintage 2000 is a superb match for chocolate desserts. Serve in large glasses. Cellaring potential 5 to 10 years. Whenever you choose to drink it, I hope you enjoy it. -George Sandeman