Wiese & Krohn Colheita 1983  £59.95

Wiese & Krohn Colheita 1983

Wiese & Krohn was founded in 1865 by two Norwegians - Theodor Wiese and Dankert Krohn - shipping initially to Scandinavia and Germany. In the century and a half since its foundation, Krohn has built up an outstanding reputation. Long renowned for the quality of their sublime Colheitas (single vintage tawnies), they produce a remarkably complete range for a small house, and each wine excels in its category. Much of the secret lies in the high quality of their vineyards - the magical combination of terroir, locality, aspect, incline and low-yielding vines. Their Quinta do Retiro Novo estate in Sarzedinho, in the Rio Torto valley (where vinification takes place), is all A grade vineyard. Indeed Krohn only works with grapes from A-graded vineyards across all of their ports, and their top wines are still trodden by foot. Since 2013 Krohn has been part of the Fladgate Partnership - alongside Taylor's, Fonseca and Croft.

A blend of several indigenous varieties including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa and Tinta Barroca. Grapes are hand-harvested and all premium Ports are still trodden by foot. After fortification Colheita Ports are aged in small casks for a minimum of 7 years (600 litres). However, as they are bottled to order, they often remain in wood much longer. Over time they acquire the characteristic mahogany colour of the old Tawnies, a fine and complex bouquet, a nutty character and a silky texture.

Pale tawny brown at the core with pronounced olive highlights in a broad gold rim. The nose is dense, mellow and spicy, with rich aromas of treacle, raisin and dried fig, combining with black pepper, cigar box and woody notes of oak and cedar - yet retains a lifted quality. Round and silky on the palate, with an attractive crisp acidity, the wine finishes with a persistent nutty butterscotch flavour. Warming and seductive, this wine displays all the intricacy and opulence of many years of ageing in seasoned oak casks.

A great match for pudding (bread pudding with raspberry sauce, or tea pudding with cinnamon and lemon sticks), tarts or cakes (made of almonds, chestnuts, chocolate, red fruits). Serve lightly chilled (between 12 and 16ºC) - this port will still be drinking well up to 3 months from opening.