In our new Port, Jason and crew have once again created a masterful blend; not just of different grapes, but different vintages as well. This delightful fortified wine is about 63% Touriga Nacional (the Portuguese grape for Portos) from the 2012 vintage. It also has 21% Syrah and 13% Merlot from our Port crafted in 2011 and 2009.

The color is a rich reddish brown edged in garnet. The initial aroma is one of sweet, bright cherries that reminded me of Luden’s cough drops from when I was a kid. After about 45 minutes, complex aromas of almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews mingled with the fruit.

The alcohol (18.2% ABV) showed on the nose, but not the palate. The flavor is all about holiday spice, with layers of vanilla, cinnamon, clove and allspice. True to Jason’s style, it is not super sweet at around 5% residual sugar. It avoids what I call the Robitussin Effect that occurs when Ports reach 10% residual. The finish is elegant and creamy in texture, with perfectly balanced flavors that linger for a long time.

Maybe after a Christmas dinner featuring Prime Rib and Potatoes Au Gratin, we should try our Port with a dark chocolate almond mousse. All you Black Label Wine Club members will need is the mousse, since the Port will be heading your way sometime next week.

Enjoy, everyone!