W & J Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port: A Detailed Tasting Experience

W & J Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port (LBV) is a highly acclaimed Portuguese fortified wine, revered for its rich fruit flavours, smooth texture, and impressive ageing potential. This detailed tasting note will guide you through the sensory journey of Graham's LBV, exploring its aromas, flavours, and ideal food pairings.

Grape Varietals and Production

Graham's LBV is a blend of premium grapes sourced from the prestigious Douro Valley in Portugal. Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cão, and Sousão are the key players, renowned for their concentrated fruit profiles and robust tannins. Grapes from a single exceptional vintage year are meticulously selected, ensuring consistent quality across releases.

Unlike Vintage Port, Graham's LBV undergoes four to six years of ageing in seasoned oak casks. This extended maturation period allows the wine to soften its tannins, develop intriguing complexities, and achieve a beautiful balance between fruit and structure.

Appearance

Swirl Graham's LBV in your glass and admire its deep, ruby-red core, transitioning to a crimson rim. The colour intensity hints at the wine's richness and concentration.

Aroma

On the nose, Graham's LBV unfolds with a captivating bouquet. Ripe black fruit notes of blackberry, plum, and cassis take centre stage, complemented by subtle hints of fig and raisin. As the wine opens up, intriguing secondary aromas emerge, showcasing hints of cedarwood, mocha, and a touch of floral character. The judicious use of oak barrels adds a subtle touch of spice and vanilla, elevating the overall aromatic profile.

Palate

The first sip of Graham's LBV reveals a beautifully textured wine. Full-bodied with a rounded mouthfeel, it presents a delightful balance between sweetness and acidity. The initial burst of ripe black fruit flavours, mirroring the aromas, is met by a gentle grip from the tannins, adding structure and complexity without being overbearing. Hints of spice, cocoa, and a touch of earthiness linger on the palate, creating a captivating flavour profile.

Finish

The finish of Graham's LBV is long and lingering, leaving a pleasant warmth and a lasting impression of its rich fruit flavours and subtle oaky character.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Graham's LBV is a versatile wine that shines alongside a variety of food options. Here are some delectable pairings to elevate your dining experience:

• Cheese:  Blue cheeses like Stilton or creamy cheeses like Gorgonzola are classic pairings for Graham's LBV. The sweetness of the wine cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious flavour combination.
• Chocolate:  For a decadent treat, pair Graham's LBV with dark chocolate desserts. The wine's rich fruit flavours complement the bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a truly indulgent experience.
• Fruit Crumbles and Pies:  Warm fruit crumbles and pies with berries, plums, or cherries make a delightful match for Graham's LBV. The wine's sweetness echoes the sweetness of the dessert, while the acidity cuts through the richness, creating a well-balanced pairing.

Serving Tips

For optimal enjoyment, serve Graham's LBV slightly chilled, ideally between 16-18°C. While decanting is not essential, it can help the wine breathe and soften any remaining tannins. Graham's LBV is ready to drink upon release and can be enjoyed for several years after bottling.

Conclusion

W & J Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port is a superb choice for those seeking a delicious and approachable fortified wine. Its rich fruit flavours, smooth texture, and impressive ageing potential make it a versatile addition to any wine lover's collection. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a delectable dessert, Graham's LBV offers a truly satisfying tasting experience.

Looking to buy W & J Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port?

Look no further than The General Wine Co. We offer a wide selection of fortified wines, including Graham's LBV, at competitive prices. Visit our website or contact us today to explore our range and place your order.