Taylor Fladgate is one of the oldest of the founding Port houses (since 1692). It is dedicated entirely to the production of Port wine and in particular to its finest styles. The VVOP is the latest in a series of exclusive releases from Fladgate. It is made from a selection of rare lots that have been maturing in wood, some before the Second World War. The wine will be represented beautifully in a bespoke decanter and accompanying wooden case. Deep chestnut brown in colour, the age is evident upon first glance. The nose has a heady aroma of butterscotch, dried figs and ground coffee, intermingling with marzipan and sultana raisins. Underneath in the background, the aromas are lifted by orange peel and apricot. Hints of vanilla, cedarwood and cinnamon provide a subtle spicy note. The complexity of this port is simply astounding. The acidity is still bright, yet the flavours are mellow and will emerge on the seemingly endless finish. Very few ports retain such balance and finesse after so many years maturing in cask. This is surely a port collectors masterpiece.