Taylor’s Port launches Sentinels Vintage Port

Taylor’s Port has announced the release of its new Taylor’s Sentinels Vintage Port, a blend of wines produced on its properties in and around the Pinhão Valley.

The four estates—Terra Feita, Junco, Casa Nova, and Eira Velha—are all located within the original 1756 demarcation and were awarded Feitoria status, the highest classification for Port vineyards.

The name Sentinels is inspired by the granite pillars, known as “marcos de feitoria”, which stand guard along the demarcation line that separates the highest quality Port areas, and where many of the Taylor’s estates are situated. A total of 335 stone posts were placed between 1758 and 1761 to mark this area.

Fruity

Each of the properties offers distinct characteristics in terms of altitude, orientation, sun, wind exposure, and mix of grape varietals, but share the Pinhão Valley style — rich, deep and fruity.

The blend for Sentinels Vintage Port is based on ‘parcel selection’, a meticulous process of choosing wines from specific plots on each estate. Like Taylor’s Single Quinta Vintage Ports, the Sentinels Vintage Ports will be crafted in years that do not produce a classic Taylor’s Vintage.

These vintages yield wines with the potential to age and improve in bottle yet are approachable and enjoyable when young.

Thrilled

Adrian Bridge, managing director of Taylor’s, said it was “thrilled” to introduce the collection.

He said: “This release underscores our commitment to producing exceptional Ports that honour the legacy of our historic estates. The Taylor’s Sentinel’s blend is a celebration of our past and a testament to our dedication to quality.”

David Guimaraens, Taylor’s head winemaker, said it was a “tribute to the unique terroir” of the Pinhão Valley.

He said: “Each estate contributes its own character to the blend, resulting in a wine that is both complex and harmonious. It’s a true reflection of the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship at Taylor’s.”