{"title":"Sweet","description":"\u003cp\u003eSweetness of the wine\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"weingut-willi-schaefer-graacher-himmelreich-riesling-spatlese","title":"Weingut Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spatlese 2023 750ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e95pts Vinous Media\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2023 Riesling Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese imbues its pristine white peach fleshiness with superbly aromatic citrus tones and mossy, green freshness. This is like a more intense Kabinett with the fruit volume dialed up a bit, but with the same essential, central lightness. It takes hold of the mouth and mind, filling the palate with charm and ease, homing in on a note of Seville orange sweetness. Its purity and radiating aromas are exquisite. (Sweet) Drinking Window: 2026 - 2060\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Schaefers presented a collection of luminous, fresh-faced, superbly elegant Rieslings. Christoph Schaefer remembers the good start to 2023, with sufficient moisture and a “warm phase in the summer months that turned into a cooler August with episodes of rain.” While the rain was initially welcome, it also posed the risk of rot. But Schaefer emphasizes that they were poised to start, having learned that flexibility is everything. The stylistic focus of 2023 was thus Kabinett and Spätlese. They did not make their village wine, Graacher trocken and feinherb, because the quality of the fruit was “too good” and thus went into Kabinett. “It was relatively clear that not every wine would gain by concentration,” he says, meaning that any development of botrytis quickly turned to the wrong kind of rot. “It was important to be decisive,” Schaefer adds. His highest Prädikat in 2023 was the Auslese Goldkapsel, which was featured in my Auction Report earlier this year\u003c\/i\u003e. \u003ci\u003e- By Anne Krebiehl MW on September 2024\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e99pts Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eSchaefer's 2023 Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese is very clear and intense yet also precise and flinty on the bright and well-defined nose that is intense without being bold and is characterized by its perfectly ripe and elegant fruit and delicate slate aroma. Lush and savory on the palate, this is a very intense, utterly mineral and mouthwatering Spätlese with great energy and tension, enormous length and salivating complexity. This is an adorable and age-worthy showstopper and a milestone Himmelreich for Andrea and Christoph Schaefer. 7.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in August 2024 from AP 8 24.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eIn the end, Christoph Schaefer was more than satisfied with the 2023 vintage, which he didn't see coming so well, describing it as \"a blend of tension, elegance and intensity,\" as the family worked to bring it home in the best possible way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The vintage was not easy,\" Christoph said at our tasting at the winery on a Sunday morning in early August. The growing season started late, with plenty of rain in the winter and spring. Then it got warm for a long time and even very warm, and the vines developed quickly. However, rain set in again at the end of July and continued into the fall. Added to this were the still-high temperatures in September, which led to the risk of rot. \"The harvest was correspondingly exhausting. We started early to take the pressure off. But we had to work absolutely cleanly from the very beginning,\" emphasized Christoph, who pursues a very clear, elegant and inspiring style. Starting the harvest early on September 15 was therefore the right choice. \"We needed the time, also because of the elaborate selection in the vineyard,\" he said. Here, the Schaefers have developed a veritable routine in recent years and are mercilessly uncompromising when it comes to negative selection. It took them over four weeks to harvest the 4.5 hectares of vines.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe result is another great series of Rieslings from the three grands crus: Graacher Domprobst, Himmelreich and Wehlener Sonnenuhr. The grape quality was at least at the Kabinett level, so it was not possible to downgrade to local wines. So, there are four Kabinett wines: three from each vineyard and a fourth again from the Domprobst. This noble, incredibly finessed and rich Kabinett (AP#1) is already the fourth consecutive vintage to be selected for the auction, whereas previously only Spätlese and Auslese vintages were selected. However, the last real Aulsese or botrytis vintage was in fact 2019. \"After that, it was really only Kabinett vintages that followed,\" said Christoph, who still found enough Spätlese grapes in 2023 (three in the Domprobst alone!), but for whom Auslese wines have become a rarity. \"Because things don't always get better if you wait,\" as he also learned last fall. \"Good Kabinett grapes quickly turn into rotten grapes that we didn't want to use.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor example, there were only 200 liters of raisined grapes from the 2023 vintage from the Domprobst (this precious Riesling #14 was reserved exclusively for long-standing regular customers), while there was only one glass balloon of Auslese from the Wehlener Sonnenuhr. The 55 liters of an almost perfect Riesling, filled as a \"long gold capsule\" (Lange Goldkapsel), will be auctioned in November.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHowever, the wine that you should definitely try to buy here – next to the regular Kabinett Rieslings – is the 2023 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese, which is almost too good to be true. The fact that you don't have to go to the auction for this quality, but to your trusted dealer, makes it Willi Schaefer's 2023 Riesling of the Year. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003cb\u003ePublished: \u003c\/b\u003eOct 17, 2024 \u003cb\u003eReviewed by: \u003c\/b\u003eStephan Reinhardt\u003ci\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTerroir\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eGraacher Himmelreich is one of the great classic sites of the Mosel, situated on steep, slate-dominant hillsides that rise sharply above the river. The soils are composed primarily of blue Devonian slate, which fractures easily and retains warmth, allowing grapes to ripen even in cool conditions. These slopes face southwest, receiving afternoon sun that coaxes flavor development while the river below reflects light and moderates temperature.\u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 vintage in the Mosel brought a long and steady growing season with balanced warmth and cool nights, yielding fruit of crystalline purity, high natural acidity, and vivid aromatics. Willi Schaefer’s approach here is always gentle and precise, resulting in wines that are transparent expressions of vineyard character, never forced, never heavy.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaking \u0026amp; Technical Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eMade from 100% Riesling, hand-harvested in multiple passes to capture optimal ripeness cluster by cluster. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in traditional large, old Mosel Fuder casks that do not impart flavor, but allow the wine to develop fine texture and slow, graceful evolution.\u003cbr\u003eThis is a Spätlese, meaning late-picked fruit with natural sweetness balanced by penetrating acidity. The wine is low in alcohol (around 7.5%) and marked by a delicate interplay of sweetness and minerality—never cloying, always lifted. No fining or overt manipulation; clarity and finesse are the priorities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2023 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese opens with green apple, white peach, lime leaf, honeysuckle, and jasmine, layered with the site’s unmistakable wet slate and cool stone aromatics.\u003cbr\u003eOn the palate, the wine is gossamer and precise, carrying a dancing lightness that belies the depth of flavor. Notes of ripe pear, mandarin, and apricot unfold slowly, joined by hints of herbal lift—lemon balm, sweet mint—and saline minerality. The sweetness is textural, not sugary, balanced perfectly by crystalline acidity that keeps the wine lifted and linear.\u003cbr\u003eThe finish is long, shimmering, and pure, echoing citrus zest and slate dust, with a delicate sense of \u003ci\u003equiet energy\u003c\/i\u003e—a hallmark of Willi Schaefer’s style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is a wine of grace rather than volume, as lyrical and transparent as Riesling gets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" align=\"center\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003chr align=\"center\" width=\"100%\" size=\"2\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood Pairing \u0026amp; Service\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eServe well-chilled (45–50 °F \/ 7–10 °C) in a white wine or tulip-shaped glass. No decanting necessary. Pair with salt, spice, and delicacy:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\" style=\"margin-top: 0in;\"\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFresh crab with lemon and chives\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSushi or sashimi, especially toro or kampachi\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThai cuisine with lime, basil, and gentle chili heat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eVietnamese spring rolls with herbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRoasted pork with apple and fennel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSoft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Chaumes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFor a perfect regional pairing: Zwiebelkuchen (savory onion tart) or flaky white fish with brown butter and capers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis wine will evolve beautifully over time. Drink now for freshness, or cellar 10–25 years for deepening honey, spice, and stone-driven complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Weingut Willi Schaefer","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45376531300548,"sku":"B2023WSchaeferGraaHimmRieslingSpat","price":67.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/8635\/9236\/files\/WeingutWilliSchaeferGraacherHimmelreichRieslingSpatlese2023750ml.jpg?v=1762884023"},{"product_id":"moulin-touchais-coteaux-du-layon-1986-750ml","title":"Moulin Touchais Coteaux du Layon 1986 750ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTerroir\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eMoulin Touchais is located in the Coteaux du Layon, one of the Loire Valley’s most historic appellations for age-worthy sweet wines made from Chenin Blanc. The vineyards lie along the banks of the Layon River, a tributary of the Loire, where gentle slopes and river influence create ideal conditions for late harvesting and the development of noble rot. Morning mists rising from the water encourage botrytis, while warm afternoons allow grapes to concentrate slowly and evenly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe soils are predominantly schist, sandstone, and clay, which retain warmth and contribute to the wine’s signature mineral backbone. Chenin Blanc thrives in these conditions, combining naturally high acidity with the ability to transmit site expression and age gracefully for decades. The 1986 vintage, harvested under traditional methods, reflects a time when patience and restraint were central to the region’s winemaking philosophy, resulting in a wine built for extraordinary longevity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaking \u0026amp; Technical Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eMoulin Touchais is renowned for its commitment to traditional winemaking and long-term aging. Grapes for the 1986 Coteaux du Layon were harvested late, with careful selection of fruit affected by noble rot, concentrating sugars while preserving Chenin Blanc’s essential acidity.\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eFermentation proceeded slowly, allowing the wine to retain natural sweetness balanced by vibrant structure. Following fermentation, the wine was aged extensively—both in tank and bottle—before release, a hallmark of the estate’s philosophy. Touchais is famous for holding back vintages for decades, releasing wines only when they begin to show tertiary development while still retaining freshness and vitality.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNo overt oak influence is present; the emphasis remains firmly on purity, evolution, and balance. The result is a wine that reflects both the vintage and the extraordinary aging potential of Chenin Blanc from this site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 1986 Moulin Touchais Coteaux du Layon displays a deeply expressive and mature aromatic profile. The nose unfolds slowly, offering layers of baked apple, quince paste, dried apricot, and honeycomb, interwoven with notes of chamomile, saffron, and beeswax. Subtle oxidative nuances—almond skin, toasted grain, and caramelized sugar—add depth without heaviness.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOn the palate, the wine is rich yet remarkably poised. The sweetness is fully integrated, carried by a spine of vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively and precise even after decades of aging. Flavors of poached pear, orange marmalade, candied ginger, and dried pineapple evolve across the palate, accompanied by savory undertones of lanolin, wet stone, and spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe texture is silky and layered, with a sense of calm concentration rather than intensity. The finish is exceptionally long, lingering with honeyed fruit, citrus peel, and a mineral bitterness that provides balance and lift. Despite its age, the wine remains remarkably fresh, a testament to both the vineyard and the estate’s patient approach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood Pairing \u0026amp; Service\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eMoulin Touchais Coteaux du Layon 1986 is best paired with dishes that respect its delicacy and complexity. It shines alongside foie gras, where richness meets acidity in perfect harmony, as well as blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Stilton, which echo the wine’s sweetness and savory depth. Light fruit-based desserts—poached pears, tarte Tatin, or apricot galette—are natural companions, provided sweetness is kept restrained.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIt is equally compelling served on its own as a contemplative wine, allowing its layers to unfold slowly in the glass. Serve slightly chilled at 50–54°F (10–12°C) in a white wine glass. Decanting is not essential, but allowing the wine time to breathe enhances aromatic complexity. This is a wine that demonstrates Chenin Blanc’s unparalleled capacity for aging, offering a profound and elegant drinking experience even after nearly four decades.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Moulin Touchais","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45653406744772,"sku":"EM50102295","price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/8635\/9236\/files\/MoulinTouchaisCoteauxduLayon1986750ml.jpg?v=1768253828"},{"product_id":"royal-tokaji-gold-label-aszu-6-puttonyos-2017-500ml","title":"Royal Tokaji Gold Label Aszu 6 Puttonyos 2017 500ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTerroir\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eSourced from premier vineyards in the historic region of Tokaj, this 6 Puttonyos Aszú reflects one of the world’s most singular terroirs. The region’s volcanic soils—composed of rhyolite, andesite, and zeolite—provide exceptional drainage and impart a distinctive mineral tension that balances the wine’s natural sweetness.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eTokaj’s unique microclimate, shaped by the confluence of the Bodrog and Tisza rivers, encourages the development of Botrytis cinerea (noble rot). Warm autumn days followed by cool, misty mornings create ideal conditions for the slow dehydration and concentration of Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Muscat grapes. The 2017 vintage delivered excellent botrytis development with vibrant acidity, producing wines of richness, purity, and remarkable structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaking \u0026amp; Technical Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe blend is led by Furmint, supported by Hárslevelű and small amounts of Yellow Muscat. Individually harvested botrytized berries (aszú) are macerated in fermenting must or base wine before gentle pressing. Fermentation occurs slowly due to the high sugar concentration and is followed by extended aging in Hungarian oak barrels.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eA 6 Puttonyos designation represents one of the highest traditional sweetness levels, typically exceeding 150 grams per liter of residual sugar, yet the hallmark of great Tokaji lies in its acidity. The 2017 balances its sweetness with vibrant natural acidity, preventing any sense of heaviness and preserving clarity of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eBrilliant deep gold in the glass, the 2017 opens with an intensely aromatic bouquet of apricot jam, candied orange peel, and acacia honey. Layers of pineapple, mango, and marmalade unfold alongside saffron, ginger, and crushed stone.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOn the palate, the wine is luxuriously textured yet remarkably precise. Concentrated stone fruit, baked apple, and citrus confit are framed by electric acidity that lifts and defines the sweetness. Notes of caramelized pear, toasted almond, and spice emerge with aeration, adding depth and sophistication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe finish is extraordinarily long, resonating with honeyed fruit, vibrant citrus, and a persistent mineral core.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood Pairing \u0026amp; Service\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eServe chilled at 50–54°F in a smaller dessert wine glass. This wine pairs beautifully with foie gras, blue cheeses such as Roquefort, fruit tarts, or almond-based pastries. It also complements spicy Asian cuisine, where sweetness and acidity counterbalance heat.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFor a classic pairing, serve alongside seared foie gras or simply enjoy on its own as a contemplative finale to a meal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCellaring \u0026amp; Longevity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eRoyal Tokaji’s 6 Puttonyos wines are built for extraordinary longevity. The 2017 possesses the sugar, acidity, and extract to age effortlessly for 40–60 years or more under proper cellaring conditions.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOver time, primary tropical and stone fruit notes will evolve toward caramel, toffee, dried fig, and exotic spice while retaining vibrancy. Even decades from now, the wine’s structure will preserve its freshness, making it not only a dessert wine but a true collector’s treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Royal Tokaji","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45777784176836,"sku":"TR31429","price":91.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/8635\/9236\/files\/RoyalTokajiGoldLabelAszu6Puttonyos2017500ml.jpg?v=1771705259"},{"product_id":"cockburns-vintage-port-2015-750ml","title":"Cockburn's Vintage Port 2015 750ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e91+pts Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2015 Vintage Port is mostly a (Douro Superior) blend of Touriga Franca 41% and Touriga Nacional 37%, with old vines, Sousão and Alicante Bouschet making up the rest. It comes in at 104 grams per liter of residual sugar. This is the Bicentenary Edition of this old house. Focused and tight—probably the tightest of the Symington 2015s—it is hard-edged and precise, but it does seem to have streaks of alcohol and baked, slightly roasted fruit. This is the one in the Symington 2015 stable that most obviously fits the old Port stereotype—massive and impenetrable when young. It easily needs the most time. Big, deep and a bit harsh and astringent just now, it is a little hard to evaluate fully. It may well improve with cellaring, but it will likely be the least attractive to drink young. It was also, to me, the least convincing for the moment, but it certainly has some upside potential. If it comes around well and integrates its parts, it should easily age gracefully for several more decades. This has been released. There were 3,500 cases produced, plus some large-format bottles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eThis is a Symington Family house. While it was a declared vintage, it was also one of the ones I liked least among the current 2015 Symington releases (some others will be released a decade later). It will need to answer some questions in the cellar, but it may well do so. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003cb\u003ePublished: \u003c\/b\u003eAug 31, 2017 \u003cb\u003eReviewed by: \u003c\/b\u003eMark Squires\u003ci\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTerroir\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eCockburn’s Vintage Port 2015 is sourced from the steep, schistous slopes of the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards cling to the riverbanks of the Douro River. The combination of schist soils and full sun exposure produces grapes with exceptional concentration, structure, and mineral complexity.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe 2015 growing season was warm and dry, producing grapes with ideal ripeness while preserving natural acidity. The vintage reflects both power and elegance, typical of a classic Douro year, with the balance required for long-term aging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaking \u0026amp; Technical Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThis Vintage Port is crafted primarily from Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca, following traditional methods. Grapes are hand-harvested and foot-trodden in lagares to gently extract color, tannin, and concentrated fruit.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFermentation is stopped by the addition of grape spirit to preserve residual sugar and balance acidity, resulting in a fortified wine with richness and longevity. The wine is then matured in large oak casks for a short period before bottling, allowing primary fruit to remain the focus while tannins integrate naturally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe 2015 Vintage was declared due to the exceptional quality and structure, ensuring it will develop over decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2015 pours a deep, opaque ruby. Aromas are intense and layered: blackberry, black cherry, and cassis are framed by chocolate, violet, and hints of cedar and graphite. Secondary notes of caramel, spice, and floral nuance emerge with aeration.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOn the palate, it is full-bodied and concentrated, with dense dark fruit framed by firm, velvety tannins and bright acidity that balances the sweetness. Layers of cocoa, coffee, and dried fig add complexity, while a subtle mineral undertone provides lift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe finish is long and persistent, carrying notes of black fruit, spice, and gentle warmth from the fortification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood Pairing \u0026amp; Service\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eServe slightly below room temperature at 60–64°F. While approachable on its own, it pairs beautifully with rich desserts such as chocolate torte, berry compote, or blue cheese. It also complements roasted nuts and aged hard cheeses.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eDecanting is optional but can help integrate the wine if served earlier in its life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCellaring \u0026amp; Longevity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eCockburn’s 2015 Vintage Port is built for extraordinary longevity. While approachable with careful decanting now, it will develop beautifully over decades. Optimal drinking is expected from 2025–2070, with the potential to age gracefully for 50 years or more.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOver time, primary black fruit will evolve toward dried fig, leather, tobacco, and spice, with tertiary complexity deepening while the wine retains its vibrant structure and elegant intensity, hallmark traits of Cockburn’s Vintage Ports.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Moulin Touchais","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45791066357956,"sku":"JB2985975","price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/8635\/9236\/files\/Cockburn_sVintagePort2015750ml.jpg?v=1772660044"},{"product_id":"ken-wright-cellars-perseverence-of-spirit-late-harvest-red-500ml","title":"Ken Wright Cellars 'Perseverence of Spirit' Late Harvest Red 500ml","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"68\" data-end=\"562\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"68\" data-end=\"79\"\u003eTerroir\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"79\" data-end=\"82\"\u003eSourced from select vineyards in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, this late-harvest red reflects a cool-climate growing region known for its long ripening season and strong vintage variation. Extended hang time allows the fruit to achieve heightened concentration and richness while maintaining the acidity necessary for balance. The region’s volcanic and marine sedimentary soils contribute depth and structure, helping preserve freshness beneath the wine’s naturally opulent profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"1071\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"596\"\u003eWinemaking \u0026amp; Technical Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"596\" data-end=\"599\"\u003eCrafted in a rare late-harvest red style, the fruit is left on the vine well beyond traditional harvest timing to concentrate sugars, flavors, and texture. Fermentation is carefully managed to preserve richness while maintaining balance and varietal character. The resulting wine bridges the gap between dessert wine and structured red wine, offering both sweetness and depth without becoming cloying. The winemaking emphasizes intensity, texture, and aromatic complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1073\" data-end=\"1563\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1073\" data-end=\"1090\"\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1090\" data-end=\"1093\"\u003eDeep garnet in the glass, the wine opens with aromas of black cherry compote, raspberry preserves, plum, and dried cranberry layered with notes of baking spice, cocoa, and floral undertones. The palate is lush and velvety, delivering concentrated dark berry fruit balanced by fresh acidity and gentle tannic structure. Hints of mocha, spice, and dried herbs emerge on the long, rich finish, which remains remarkably lifted despite the wine’s sweetness and concentration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1565\" data-end=\"1887\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1565\" data-end=\"1591\"\u003eFood Pairing \u0026amp; Service\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1591\" data-end=\"1594\"\u003eA versatile dessert-oriented red, this wine pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, berry tarts, blue cheeses, and rich chocolate desserts. It also works surprisingly well alongside foie gras or savory dishes with fruit-driven sauces. Serve slightly cool to highlight its freshness and balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1889\" data-end=\"2203\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1889\" data-end=\"1912\"\u003eCellaring Potential\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1912\" data-end=\"1915\"\u003eWith its concentration, sugar, and acidity, this wine has the structure to evolve gracefully for 10–15+ years. Over time, the fruit profile will become deeper and more complex, developing additional notes of dried fig, spice, leather, and cocoa while maintaining its richness and balance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ken Wright Cellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46165091877060,"sku":"GV-KE56000101","price":59.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/8635\/9236\/files\/KenWrightCellars_PerseverenceofSpirit_LateHarvestRed500ml.jpg?v=1779453045"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.prismfinewine.com\/collections\/sweet.oembed","provider":"Prism Fine Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}