Taylor's : Sentinels Vintage Port 2024

Tasting characteristics and tips for Taylor's Sentinels Vintage Port 2024

Tasting

Nose
The aromatic bouquet is powerful, dominated by forest fruits, blackcurrant, dark plum and ripe cherries. Subtle notes of black cherry intertwine with a delicate hint of rose petal.

Palate
The attack is fresh, vibrant and remarkably precise. This rich and complex wine offers a very generous fruit-driven character, complemented by nuances of lavender and gentle herbaceous touches. The finish is particularly long and persistent.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs wonderfully with red meats or game served with fruity sauces, as well as mushroom-based dishes. It also enhances blue-veined cheeses such as Roquefort, or lightly sweetened dark chocolate desserts.

Serving and ageing

It is recommended to store the bottle lying down in a cool place, ideally below 16 °C. Before serving, stand it upright a few hours beforehand to allow the natural sediment to settle, then decant carefully. Sentinels Vintage Port 2024 is best enjoyed between 16 and 18 °C and will be fully appreciated within one to two days after opening. It boasts an exceptional ageing potential that may extend over several decades.

The authentic expression of the Port terroir by Taylor's

The estate

Founded in 1692, Taylor's is a historic, family-owned house from the Duriense region, renowned worldwide for the excellence of its cuvées. Now led by Adrian Bridge within The Fladgate Partnership group, this iconic benchmark has preserved its independence for more than three centuries. It stands out for its mastery of the terroirs and its constant innovation, while remaining faithful to the traditions that have shaped its reputation for elegance and longevity.

The vineyard

The grapes come from the finest estates in the Pinhão Valley, at the heart of the Port-producing region. The vines flourish on steep slopes and traditional terraces with schistous soils, benefiting from varied exposures. The blend draws on historic estates such as Quinta de Terra Feita, Quinta do Junco, Quinta da Casa Nova and Quinta da Eira Velha, some of whose lands have been cultivated for more than six centuries.

The vintage

The 2023-2024 winter was marked by the return of rainfall. Spring and early summer proved cool, with well-spaced rains favouring healthy vine growth. From July onwards, a long dry period set in until harvest, with veraison beginning on 18 July. Late August and September brought slightly cooler days and particularly cold nights, ideal conditions for completing phenolic ripening.

Winemaking and ageing

The crafting of Sentinels Vintage Port 2024 relies on a meticulous balance between cutting-edge winegrowing practices and ancestral methods. The grapes undergo traditional foot treading in lagares, allowing a fine and delicate extraction of tannins and aromas prior to fortification.

Grape varieties

This Vintage Port is produced from a blend of old vines and traditional varieties including Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca and Touriga Francesa.