Grape Variety: 35% Touriga Franca, 35% Touriga Nacional, 15% Tinta Roriz, 15% Tinta Amarela

Growing Region: Douro Valley, DOC Porto, Portugal

Chief Winemaker: Luis Sottomayor

TASTING NOTE:
The 2009 growing season was dry, though with generally mild temperatures until an extremely hot period during August, causing quick ripening, which meant harvest took place about two weeks earlier than previously. The carefully selected grapes were hand-picked at optimum maturation and fermentation took place in stainless steel vats and being pressed under controlled temperatures.

The wines were transported to Vila Nova de Gaia the following spring to start the traditional Porto wine maturation process, in large oak casks. Regular blending and adjustments are made when necessary to craft the final blend. Aged for about four years, this wine was bottled with only the slightest of filtration following tiny adjustments to retain the style of a single-year wine.

This Sandeman LBV 2009 has a deep red colour that fills the glass. It has a complex and intense aroma of ripe dark fruits, along with spicy notes. It also shows tobacco and rich cedar notes, with a delicate floral component. The palate is intense and complex, with excellent tannins and balanced acidity. Also showing dark fruits across the palate with cedar and cloves, giving this Port a long and harmonious finish.

This Sandeman LBV 2009 has 20.5% alcohol - ready to drink now and doesn't require decanting, unless it has been aged for a long time. It should be served at between 15-17C. Once open, it should be enjoyed within 5-7 days.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this winter season; and will age gracefully for another 9-12 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine pairing with chocolate-rich desserts, dark-fruit tarts and blue cheese, enjoy.

An LBV 2009 Port, packed with character.