This intensely fruity and distinctive Port was produced from a specially selected section of our home vineyard on Taplin Road and bottled December 2007. Bottle no. 7446 of 8026.
I have to admit, when Carey and I arrived in Napa on the 3rd day of our honeymoon, I really had no concept of the scene we were stepping into. Months before our arrival a close family friend and restauranteur had arranged tours and tastings throughout the valley. In my head, the lead-up felt like we were being granted permission to pass through the gates of a tightly guarded club, which only proper tugs on proper strings could initiate. This was the allure and mystique Napa Valley held in my imagination.
Actually, I was shocked by the accessibility. What I didn’t expect were maps with hundreds of dots, welcome signs, famed vineyards and wineries that could be entered without an appointment, and without hassle. The possibilities grew limitless as I started to calculate off-itinerary stops.
Heitz Cellars was the first reckless screech off the highway. Our very first stop on the trip, and the home of the famed Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, which I didn’t get to try—but I did come away with two bottles of delicious Port, which have spent the last 2 years laying low.
From my tasting notebook:
Soft nose made possible by a notably contained heat. Richly developed fruit, cherry, and plum, with a hint of pine resin on the finish. Approachable and deep, if not stirringly complex. Great producer, great label, great price. Bring it to a party, but save the Heitz Ink Grade for the romance, and the cellar.
[Learn about Port with Gary V. as he works his way through 3 vintage Taylor Fladgate Ports.]
Enjoy!
-Rob
I’ve tried their Cabs – awesome stuff! But never the port. Will have to try getting my hands on a bottle. Thanks for sharing Rob!