The Fladgate Partnership and U.S. importer Kobrand Wine & Spirits have released Croft Quinta da Roêda 2012 and Taylor Fladgate Quinta de Vargellas 2012 Ports, each available nationwide.

Single quinta vintage Ports such as these are produced only in years in which a general vintage is not declared. The grapes are trodden by foot in granite lagares to minimize the release of harsh, bitter compounds from grape skins and seeds, and fermentation is halted by the addition of brandy before all the residual sugar has been fermented.

Croft Quinta da Roêda Vintage Port 2012

20% ABV, 750ml, $47.99 SRP

Croft Ports spend two years in wood, after which the wines are bottled unfiltered and will continue maturing for decades. The nose is a fruitiness combined with the resiny, musky redolence of wild herbs and gum cistus. The year has placed this wine at the elegant and subtle end of the Roêda spectrum. Blended with the typically jammy fruit are notes of raspberry and apricot and the palate is lifted by a crisp acidity and supported by dense firm, sinewy tannins. Slightly more restrained and clearly delineated than some recent Roêda vintages, the wine displays a ripe fruitiness.

Pair with aged cheeses such as Gouda, dark chocolate torte or flourless chocolate cake and desserts made with berries.

Taylor Fladgate Quinta de Vargellas Vintage Port 2012 

20% ABV, 750ml, $52.99 SRP

This wine has spent two years aging in vat before bottling.

Woodland fruit aromas combine with notes of wild herbs, gum cistus and discreet hints of vanilla. The floral scents include violet along with blossom notes. Clean, vibrant berry fruit flavors. Wiry tannins on the mid-palate which provide plenty of grip and a touch of austerity.

Most often served after a meal, alone or with cheese, nuts, dried fruits or fine dark chocolate.