W. & J. Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port

Tasting Note:

• Appearance: Deep tawny hue with shimmering amber highlights, hinting at its years of slow oak maturation. The liquid is viscous and coats the glass, promising a rich and full-bodied experience.
• Aroma: A complex and layered bouquet unfolds with each breath. Nutty notes of almonds and walnuts mingle with hints of dried fruits like figs and dates. A touch of honey and caramel adds sweetness, while subtle floral whispers of orange blossom and rose add elegance. As the aroma opens up, hints of spice, like cinnamon and nutmeg, emerge, offering a glimpse of the port’s hidden depths.
• Palate: The first sip explodes with richness and warmth, coating the palate with a luxurious embrace. The initial sweetness of honey and fig quickly gives way to a harmonious interplay of flavors. Toasty oak, cinnamon, and a hint of ginger add complexity, while the dried fruit notes dance on the tongue. The acidity is perfectly balanced, keeping the richness in check and adding a refreshingly bright touch.
• Finish: The finish is long, lingering, and incredibly satisfying. The warmth of spice and roasted oak lingers on the tongue, joined by notes of honey and a hint of orange zest. It fades slowly, leaving a memory of warmth and rich complexity.

Overall, W. & J. Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port is a testament to the art of ageing. It is rich and full-bodied, yet balanced and elegant. The complex and layered flavors offer a journey for the senses, with each sip revealing new depths. This is a port for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship, and one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Food Pairing:

• Savory:

  • Aged Cheeses: The nutty and salty notes of aged cheddar, parmesan, or Gruyère pair beautifully with the port’s rich fruit and oak character. The sweetness cuts through the cheese’s sharpness, while the oak adds depth and complexity.
  • Roasted Duck Breast: The tender duck and its slightly gamey flavor contrast nicely with the port’s sweetness and fruitiness. The oak notes complement the roasted flavors, and the acidity helps balance the richness.
  • Foie Gras with Fruit Compote: The decadent foie gras’ richness finds a refreshing counterpart in the port’s acidity and fruitiness. The sweetness complements the foie gras, while the oak adds complexity. Choose a compote with complementary fruits like figs or dates for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Chocolate Soufflé: The warm and airy chocolate soufflé pairs perfectly with the port’s depth and complex flavors. The sweetness complements the chocolate’s bitterness, while the oak adds a touch of smokiness, creating a decadent dessert experience.

  Sweet:

  • Caramelized Pear Tart: The tart and tangy caramelized pear tart pairs well with the port’s sweetness and acidity. The oak notes complement the caramel’s richness, while the pear’s natural sweetness mirrors the port’s fruitiness.
  • Honey-Vanilla Panna Cotta: The creamy and rich honey-vanilla panna cotta’s sweetness harmonizes with the port’s honey and fig notes. The oak adds a touch of complexity, creating a smooth and indulgent dessert pairing.
  • Gingerbread Cake with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting: The spicy and warm gingerbread cake balances the port’s richness and fruitiness. The oak notes complement the gingerbread’s spiciness, while the vanilla cream cheese frosting adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess.

• Avg Price (ex-tax)
• $36 / 750ml

Graham’s 10 Years Old Tawny Port is a tribute to craftsmanship. It epitomizes the passion for excellence and precision that is at the heart of every one of Graham’s handmade Tawny Ports. After a decade of care and slow oak-maturation this wine is a wonderful example of the complex flavors of Tawny Port. This is a Port wine for those who appreciate quality in every detail.

https://www.grahams-port.com/wine/10-year-old-tawny/10

Scores:
93 Points, James Suckling, 2023
92 Points, Wine Spectator, 2018
92 Points, Wine Enthusiast, 2008
92 Points, Decanter, 2023