Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2004: A Wine With Great Aging Potential

Winemaking

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2004 is made in accordance with traditional port-making methods. Grapes are hand-picked and put into small baskets before being partially stripped and then trodden by foot in old stone “lagares”. Fermentation is done with temperature control, before being stopped by adding brandy (firewater). This wine has great aging potential, reaching up to 30 years when stored in the ideal conditions.

Grape Varieties

This port is a combination of the following grapes: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Sousão, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão.

Tasting Notes

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2004 is a dark blue in color. Its aroma is still juicy and fruity. It has a medium body and lots of tannin, making it easy to drink. There is a rather nice finish.

Storing and Serving

This port should be stored in a horizontal position, at a constant temperature and away from intense direct light. It may form natural sediment over time, so it should be carefully opened and decanted before being served. Once the bottle is opened, it should be consumed the same day. When decanted, the wine will open and reach its peak, before gradually losing its freshness. Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2004 should be served at a temperature between 16º C and 18º C.

Food Pairing and Allergens

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2004 pairs very well with strong cheeses such as Stilton, Roquefort, Danish blue, Portuguese Serra, among others. It can also be served with fruit or chocolate desserts. This wine contains sulphites and should be consumed with caution by those with allergies.

Reviews and Awards

Vista Alegre Vintage Port 2004 has earned many awards, including a silver medal at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2007, a bronze medal at the International Wine Challenge 2011, and a bronze medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition 2008.