Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2008: An Exceptional Port Wine

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2008 is a remarkable wine produced according to the traditional winemaking techniques. This port wine is comprised of seven different grape varieties, such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Sousão, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão.

Winemaking

Grapes for this vintage port are hand-picked and placed in small baskets. During winemaking, the grapes undergo a partial stripping before they are trod by foot in old stone “lagares”. The fermentation process is temperature-controlled and is stopped by adding brandy. This vintage port is unfiltered, and has very big aging potential, with a potential of over 30 years when stored under the ideal conditions.

Tasting Notes

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2008 has a dark red color with violet nuances. It has an intense aroma of red and black mature fruits, and is soft and silky on the palate. It is a full-bodied port wine, with a great structure that is warm and rich, with evident but velvety tannins that provide a long finish. On the palate, it offers flavors of blackberry and raspberry, as well as other mature fruits.

Serving and Storing Advices

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2008 should be stored horizontally in a cool and dark place, away from intense direct light. When opened, it should be decanted and consumed within the same day. It should be served between 16° C and 18° C.

Food Pairing and Allergens

This vintage port pairs perfectly with strong cheeses such as Stilton, Roquefort, Danish blue, and Portuguese Serra. It also pairs well with fruit and chocolate desserts, or even a good cigar. This wine contains sulphites.

Awards and Reviews

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2008 was awarded with gold in the International Wine Challenge of 2009. It also achieved a score of 92 points in the Robert Parker Review.