Portugal, Porto, Douro
Dessert wine – Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz
Price category: Moderate Price
Points: 96 – Remarkable
Stars: 5 – Impressive value
-> Real Companhia Velha
There is something special about Vintage Port. Or… there can be. It depends on the year, of course, and on whether the wine is at a stage where it truly shows itself. Real Companhia Velha is the oldest wine house in Portugal, so it is hardly surprising that they know exactly how to handle this style. The 2013 vintage is cool and classical, giving the wine a balanced profile and a long life that easily stretches up to 40 years under proper conditions.
When tasted now, it already carries a certain authority. It benefits from air, patience and a respectful approach before reaching the glass, and once it settles, it reveals a dark and concentrated style with calm, weight and balance. It is powerful without becoming heavy, and elegant without drifting into anything overly polished.
This Port works brilliantly with blue cheese, chocolate, nuts and Christmas dishes, where its concentrated style meets flavours that can match its intensity. It also performs beautifully as a cosy winter glass when cold evenings call for something warm and comforting.
The aroma leans towards dark berries and spice, with cocoa and liquorice forming the deeper layers that unfold into the long and confident finish. It tastes excellent for anyone who simply enjoys well‑made Port without needing specialist knowledge — and for those who like exploring finer nuances, there is plenty to dive into.
