Winemaker Notes
Aromas of ripe berry, caramel and cinnamon lead to deep flavors of blackberry, warm spices, and dark chocolate. A full, rich and complex Port, well-balanced with a rich and spicy finish.
Blend: 30% Tinta Madera 30% Tinta Cao 20% Souzao 20% Touriga Nacional
Professional Ratings
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Connoisseurs' Guide
30% Tinta Madeira; 30% Tinta Cao; 20% Souzao; 20% Touriga Nacional. We liked the 2014 version of Pedroncelli’s Four Grapes Vintage Port, but we like this one even more. It is a little tight out of the gate and aromatically resembles a late-harvest table wine, but, once in the mouth, it assumes the density, breadth and richness of a classic Port. It abounds in sweet blackberry- and cherry-like fruit and its fruity extract so effectively buffers its tannins and alcohol that it can drunk with ease right now, but those willing to set it aside for another four or five years will be rewarded with more complexity and tactile polish yet. And, not the least of its many virtues is its surprisingly low asking price for a full 750 milliliter bottle.
Port is a sweet, fortified wine with numerous styles: Ruby, Tawny, Vintage, Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), White, Colheita, and a few unusual others. It is blended from from the most important red grapes of the Douro Valley, based primarily on Touriga Nacional with over 80 other varieties approved for use. Most Ports are best served slightly chilled at around 55-65°F. To learn more, see our full Port Wine Guide
A multifaceted and highly reputable sub-region of Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley is responsible for a wide range of wine styles—both red and white. One of the smallest AVAs in California, Dry Creek Valley has a winning combination of ideal geography and climate. Fertile, well-drained soils create concentrated varietal character while long, warm days, bookended by cool nights, allow grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness and balance. The warm and welcoming appellation is home to a number of family-owned vineyards and wineries that place a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices.
Zinfandel reigns supreme here and still produces in a great number of very old vineyards—often 100 years old or older. These old vines create a powerful, voluptuous and sultry wine unlike those of any other region. Sauvignon Blanc, the valley’s signature white grape, also performs exceptionally well. Many other varieties grow comfortably here, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah. Petite Sirah is often found in blends with Zinfandel.