Wine Advisor
Warre's, Vintage Port 2011
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Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
The Warre’s Vintage was picked beginning on September 18 at Quinta da Cavindha, with fruit also sourced from Quinta do Retiro and Quinta da Telhada. It is a blend of 37% Touriga Nacional, 23% Tinta Franca and 40% mixture of old vines. There is a lovely sea spray note on the 2011 Warre’s that emerges after ten minutes in the glass. It is nicely defined with a tangible mineral component. The palate is very well-balanced with fine tannins, very well-judged acidity and a languorous feel, as if everything is in place and it does not want to show off. This is a lovely, refined 2011 – one of the most elegant 2011s. This is a classic Warre’s. 3,000 cases declared. Tasted May 2013. Importer: Vineyard Brands - www.vineyardbrands.com
Reviewed by: Stephen Tanzer
Bright ruby-red. Slightly high-toned aromas of blackberry, bitter chocolate, violet and licorice. Lush on entry, then densely packed and sweet in the middle, with fruit-driven flavors of kirsch, black raspberry and cassis nicely support by sexy oak tannins. Surprisingly dry and classic on the finish, with harmonious acidity giving the wine terrific balance.
About the Producer
Founded in 1670, Warre’s is the oldest British Port company established in Portugal. Its is the history of two families: the Warres and the Symingtons.The first Warre, William, arrived in Portugal in 1729 and became a partner in the export company Messrs. Clark, Thornton & Warre, which exported Portuguese wine among other goods. By the 18th century, Warre’s had become one of the leading companies in the Port trade. The Symington family joined Warre & Co in 1905 and in 1908 became the soul owners. The Symington family, now 5th generation Port producers, have managed Warre’s for over 100 years and continue to drive it forwards today. Currently six members of the Symington family are actively involved in Warre’s day-to-day management, with the dedication and long-term commitment that are unique to a family-run business. For 350 years Warre’s has been a pioneer in the Port trade, from advances in the winery to viticultural research. Sourced from three vineyards – Quinta da Cavadinha, Quinta do Retiro Antigo, and Quinta da Telhada – the majority of the Port produced is made with modern methods, using state-of-the-art vinification technology, however a small proportion is still produced by the time-honored method of treading.
