Quinta de Ervamoira Ramos Pinto 20 Year Old Tawny Port

Quinta de Ervamoira Ramos Pinto 20 Year Old Tawny Port: A Sophisticated Sip of Aged Perfection

Introduction

Discerning wine drinkers seeking an exceptional aged Tawny Port need look no further than the Quinta de Ervamoira Ramos Pinto 20 Year Old Tawny Port. This exquisite offering from Ramos Pinto, one of Portugal's most prestigious Port houses, boasts an average of 20 years of ageing in seasoned oak casks. The result is a captivating and complex expression, brimming with mature fruit character, subtle oaky notes, and a luxuriously smooth finish.

Tasting Notes

• Colour: A beautiful tawny hue with an amber halo, reflecting the wine's extended ageing.
• Nose: The initial aroma is lively and engaging, offering a delightful interplay of fruit and wood influences. Vibrant notes of grapefruit, apricot, almond, hazelnut, and cocoa bean mingle seamlessly with hints of vanilla, old Port casks, and a touch of phenol. Rich roasted nuances of cinnamon, caramel, and coffee add further depth and complexity. Delicate ethereal aromas of stearin and iodine complete the captivating bouquet.
• Palate: The first sip reveals a smooth and surprisingly dry texture, belying the wine's tawny designation. A burst of rich and generous flavours envelops the palate, showcasing a harmonious balance between the wine's inherent sweetness and the subtle drying effect of oak ageing. Hints of dried blackcurrant mingle with luxurious toffee and nutty characters, creating a truly decadent taste profile. The finish is incredibly long and persistent, leaving a lingering impression of sophistication and elegance.

Food Pairing

The Quinta de Ervamoira Ramos Pinto 20 Year Old Tawny Port is a versatile after-dinner drink that pairs beautifully with a variety of sweet and savoury options. Here are some suggested food pairings to elevate your tasting experience:

• Cheese: This Tawny Port complements a diverse range of cheeses. Creamy blue cheeses like Stilton or Gorgonzola provide a delightful contrast to the wine's acidity. Mature Cheddar or Gouda offer a richness that mirrors the Port's character. For a truly indulgent pairing, try Roquefort with its sharp and piquant notes.
• Desserts: The wine's complex sweetness makes it a perfect partner for a variety of desserts. Pair it with dark chocolate desserts like brownies or chocolate cake for a decadent treat. Nut-based desserts like pecan pie or baklava create a harmonious flavour combination. For a lighter option, try serving it with blue cheese panna cotta or crème brûlée.
• Dried Fruit and Nuts: The Quinta de Ervamoira 20 Year Old Tawny Port is a natural companion to a platter of dried fruits and nuts. The sweetness of the wine complements the natural sugars in dried apricots, raisins, and dates. Almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts add a textural counterpoint and enhance the nutty notes present in the Port.
• Chocolate: For an after-dinner treat fit for any occasion, pair this Tawny Port with a selection of fine chocolates. Dark chocolates with a minimum 70% cocoa content allow the wine's complex flavours to shine through. Experiment with chocolates infused with fruits, nuts, or spices to discover new taste sensations.

Serving Suggestions

To fully appreciate the Quinta de Ervamoira 20 Year Old Tawny Port, serve it slightly chilled, between 18°C and 22°C.  This temperature range allows the wine's delicate aromas and flavours to unfurl beautifully.  Use a small stemmed glass designed for Port or Sherry to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.

Conclusion

The Quinta de Ervamoira Ramos Pinto 20 Year Old Tawny Port is a remarkable expression of aged Port that embodies the Ramos Pinto tradition of excellence. With its captivating complexity, luxurious smoothness, and impressive ageing potential, this Port is sure to become a treasured addition to any wine enthusiast's collection.  Whether enjoyed on its own as an after-dinner digestif or paired with a delectable dessert, this exceptional Tawny Port promises a truly memorable tasting experience.