The Spirit World

Using its traditional Declaration date, St George’s Day (23 April), The Fladgate Partnership announces its decision to declare the 2007 Vintage for all three Port houses - Taylor’s, Fonseca and Croft.

Adrian Bridge, Managing Director of The Fladgate Partnership said, “A Declaration is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in our business and one which creates a prestigious standing for our Ports amongst the great iconic wines of the world.”

Taylor’s, Fonseca and Croft are three of the most revered names in Vintage Port.  The estates which produce these exceptional Ports have benefitted from decades of investment and pioneering development which, together with their unique locations, allow them to produce wines of great pedigree and style.

Bridge, is confident about the latest classic Vintage to be added to its portfolio. “The 2007 Vintage Ports from Taylor’s, Fonseca and Croft contain the hallmarks of their individual house style.  It is a vintage which shows elegance and poise backed with impressive structure and excellent balance which will give enjoyment for many years to come.

“In contrast to previous years, there were no significant periods of intense heat until very early September. Most of the ripening took place in sunny but relatively cool conditions producing healthy leaf canopies able to benefit from the warm weather that preceded the harvest.”

Commenting on the Vintage, David Guimaraens, Head Winemaker notes, “Perfect harvesting conditions with cool nights and warm days played a vital role in the final development of the grapes.”   At the time of his harvest report, Guimaraens wrote, “Ripening has been very even and balanced at all our properties and this is already shining through in the wines. There is excellent acidity and structure and an attractive fresh fruitiness.”