95-pt Taylor Fladgate Vargellas 2019, Only 5000 Cases Produced!

Why Buy: With a mere 5,000 cases produced for the entire world, this is a rare chance to secure one of the year's most compelling releases from one of the Upper Douro's premier growing sites. The 2019 Quinta de Vargellas demonstrates exactly why Taylor Fladgate has remained at the pinnacle of Port production for 332 years – matching 95-point scores from two of the industry's most discerning critics tell only part of the story. We've been evangelizing about this wine to friends and family for months, watching their faces light up as they discover what we've been so excited about, and we're thrilled to be able to bring it to you for less than $60 a bottle. An exceptional experience, and the perfect way to unwind after a long day.

What They're Saying: Wine Spectator's James Molesworth awarded 95 points to this "very friendly and expressive" port, praising its "lush waves of boysenberry, blackberry, and acai berry fruit." He singled out its remarkable structure and length, noting how deftly it balances power with finesse. James Suckling, who also bestowed 95 points, praised it for being “full-bodied but not heavy,” with "fine tannins that are compact and potent” and notes of "blue flowers and crushed stones.”

Our Tasting Notes: The 2019 Quinta de Vargellas announces itself with an intense purple-black core that transitions to a narrow red rim with striking magenta highlights. The nose brings forth pure, precise notes of wild berries and fresh herbs, with subtle hints of forest floor adding compelling depth. On the palate, bright acidity provides lift and energy, while firm, precise tannins create a framework for decades of development.

The Story: Taylor Fladgate's story begins in 1692 with Job Bearsley, whose pioneering spirit set the tone for centuries to come. His son Bartholomew became the first British wine shipper to purchase property in the Douro Valley, a prescient move that secured access to the region's finest fruit. But it was the acquisition of the Vargellas vineyard under the Yeatman family's stewardship that proved transformative, elevating Taylor Fladgate to new heights. Its reputation in the early 1820s was already that of the producer of the finest port wines; today it ranks among the great vineyards of the world.

What to Pair It With: It’s going to show most beautifully alongside rich blue cheeses, and ideally, with a small bowl of fresh walnuts close at hand.

Fun Fact: The current CEO of Taylor Fladgate, Adrian Bridge, brings an extraordinary background to his role. Before joining the family business, in 1988, he competed on Britain's bobsled team, served six years in the military, and made multiple attempts to summit Mount Everest. 

Our Guarantee: Remember, friends – we always buy and source directly from the brand or estate, so you can rest assured that your wine will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance.