2003 Croft Vintage Port Portugal

Winery Notes

"The Winter preceding the 2003 harvest was very wet. Flowering took place in bright warm weather at the end of May in some of the best conditions seen for several years. The first two weeks of August provided the intense Summer heat which often precedes a great port vintage. The second half of August was cooler and two days of rain occurred with perfect timing, ripening off the grapes at the end of the month.

The picking season in September was warm and dry and the yields were even across all grape varieties, ensuring balance and complexity in the wines. Winemakers’ notes highlight the very intense colour and large amount of tannin released by the skins during fermentation, as well as the powerful fruitiness of the young wines."

"The 2003 Croft Vintage Port reveals an opaque, black-colored core with notes of dark ruby on the rim. Its gorgeously creamy, profound nose displays sweet dark cherries, black plums, pepper, raisin jam, and blueberries. Thick, satin-textured, and immensely rich, this opulent yet elegant wine is engagingly warm, concentrated, and harmonious. Copious quantities of plums, black cherries, jammy blackberries and spices are found throughout its personality as well as in its prolonged, spirit-tinged, finish. Projected maturity: 2020-2045"

Press

"Gorgeous aromas of blueberries and dried flowers follow through to a sweet, full-bodied palate. Velvety and round, with lovely fruit. Long finish. Best after 2015. 6,500 cases made."

Rated 96 Points Wine Spectator

"The 2003 Croft has a relatively exotic nose for this Port, with cherry liqueur, peat, licorice and melted dark chocolate on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent, ripe black fruit. It is plush and heady, the acidity lower than the 2007 or 2009, so that the finish is rounded, decadent and spicy, without the tension and class of other vintages. It is a hedonistic delight, but it would not be my choice of Croft at the moment."

Rated 90 Points Wine Advocate