Vargellas Vinha Velha 2017: An Early Harvest Following Heat and Drought
The Vargellas Vinha Velha Vintage Port 2017 comes from a special part of Quinta de Vargellas. Here stand old vines that preserve a piece of the Douro’s history. Taylor Fladgate bottles this selection separately, allowing the character of the old plots to stand on its own alongside the house’s classic Vintage Ports.
Generally Recognized Vintage Port Vintage
2017 is one of the widely declared Vintage Port vintages. In this vintage year, numerous port houses chose to release their best wines as Vintage Port. This widespread declaration underscores the exceptional reputation of the harvest in the Douro, while each producer maintains its own style and selection.
Old grapevines with a history
Quinta de Vargellas is located in the upper reaches of the Douro River and is closely associated with Taylor Fladgate, a port house founded in 1692. In the old Vinha Velha plots, various traditional grape varieties grow intermixed, as has long been customary in the region. This mixed planting and the limited yields give the selection a distinctive character.
The Story of the Vintage
2017 was exceptionally warm and dry in the Douro. The harvest began early, and yields were limited in many places. The old vines at Quinta de Vargellas produced a concentrated selection, with dark fruit and a firm structure. It is a vintage in which the conditions of the growing season are clearly reflected.
Aromas and Development
Blackcurrant, blackberries, black plums, violets, and spices can define the bouquet. During further bottle aging, dried fruit, cocoa, and more complex spice notes may emerge. The exact development depends on the storage conditions and the condition of each bottle.
Storage and Serving
This case contains three bottles from the same vintage, allowing you to open the port at different times. Store the bottles in a cool, dark place. Stand one bottle upright beforehand and decant it carefully to separate any sediment. Serve slightly chilled—perhaps with blue cheese—or enjoy the wine on its own.
Discover more
See also Taylor Fladgate Vargellas Vinha Velha Vintage Port 2000 and discover other unique ports at Port2Port.


