The fruit for Croft Distinction is sourced in the traditional way, from the highest-quality individual growers in the Douro Valley, where the varying altitude and aspect of the vineyards creates the potential for a complex wine of great character. In the winery, the newly developed, robotic “Port Toes” technology for treading allows the winery to maximize the quality of the fruit by imitating the traditional action of human feet and avoiding damage to the bitter grape seeds. Fermentation is halted by the addition of grape spirits before all the residual sugar has been fermented, creating a sweet, fortified wine. This vintage-character Porto is blended from wines aged for three to four years in neutral oak barrels to achieve greater complexity than in younger wines.

Tasting notes

This rich premium, reserve port is blended from wines of superior age and quality to yield a wine of complexity. It shows a ripe, jammy, well integrated nose of raisins and black plums with youthful fruit on the palate.

Rating

Ultimate Beverage Challenge 90 points (May 2012) Deep purple color. This fragrance is chockfull of waxy, woody and dried fruit scents that are simultaneously profound and graceful. In the mouth, the taste profile rocks with big-time flavors of black plums, cherry preserves and cedar. Lovely and harmoni

Food pairing

Can be enjoyed on its own after a meal, or paired with fruit-based desserts or a rich cheese plate. Made to be enjoyed immediately.