Taylor’s 2003 Vintage Port – 100 points from Robert Parker (Hedonist Gazette)

Taylor’s 2003 Vintage Port is one of the most monumental Ports of recent times. With the maximum 100 points from Robert Parker in the Hedonist Gazette, this vintage has written itself into the history books of Port. 2003 is a powerful and concentrated vintage in the Douro – and at Taylor’s it is elevated to a level where only the greatest Vintage Ports can compete.

In the glass it appears almost opaque black. The aroma is intense and deep with a salty, graphite minerality that beautifully frames the sweet black fruits. It is reminiscent of great Bordeaux in its structure and seriousness. With oxygenation, it further opens up to layers of molasses, burnt sugar, spices and pickled plums – a nose of immense complexity and depth.

The palate is full-bodied, massive and impressively dense – incredibly rich and almost creamy in texture, yet perfectly balanced. Notes of raisins, molasses, licorice, black cherries, plums and violets weave together in a seamless and harmonious whole. The finish seems almost endless, revealing layers of dark chocolate, kirsch, black currants, red berries, dark cherries and rose petals. This is a Vintage Port armed with exceptional power, depth and purity.

Taylor’s 2003 has the structure and concentration to age for decades. It can be enjoyed young after thorough decanting, but will reward patience with even greater complexity over the next 20-40 years. A reference vintage and an obvious choice for the collector, investor or passionate Port connoisseur.

Tasting notes

• Color: Almost black, deep and opaque.
• Aroma: Black fruits, graphite, molasses, burnt sugar and spices.
• Taste: Extremely concentrated and rich with raisins, licorice, plums and violets.
• Finish: Endlessly long with notes of chocolate, kirsch, blackcurrant and rose petals.

House of Taylor, Fladgate & Yeatman

Taylor’s – part of the long-established Fladgate Partnership – is one of the most respected and historic port houses in the Douro. With more than 300 years of experience, the house is known for structured, age-worthy Vintage Ports with enormous depth and character. The 2003 vintage stands as a monument to the house’s uncompromising approach to quality and terroir.

• Product: Taylor’s 2003 Vintage Port
• Vintage: 2003
• Type: Vintage Port
• Region: Douro, Portugal
• Review: 100 points – Robert Parker (Hedonist Gazette)
• Quantity: 75 cl
• Contains: Sulfites
• Alcohol content: 20%