Port 2007
En Primeur
Port declarations are few and far between, occurring maybe three to four times a decade. The last vintage to be unanimously declared was 2003, a year distinguished by a very hot summer. 2007s cooler vintage conditions have created a port which epitomises freshness, balance and longevity.
The Wines
The great attraction of the 2007 vintage ports is their exquisite freshness and purity. The wines exude lifted, floral characters backed by crunchy black berry fruit. The classic spicy notes one would expect in great vintage Port are in evidence but the wines seem measured and even approachable due to their balanced nature. Their tannic structure guarantees that they will last for many decades in cellar.
The Vintage Conditions
2007 has been described as ‘atypical’, the cooler summer temperatures providing a marked contrast to the previous years of very hot weather. A wet winter helped to recoup the vines water table and the summer months were uncharacteristically cooler. A warm, dry September allowed the grapes to ripen fully and they arrived at the wineries in excellent condition for colour, fruit and tannin extraction. At the declaration tasting in London this year, the representatives from many houses commented on the fact that the usual high temperatures and scorching Douro sun were more tempered this vintage. This shows in the wines which favour a more elegant character and are poised and balanced, rather than heady and overtly powerful.
Browse currently available Port 2007 Wines 
Conclusion
Port is viewed as a highly attractive prospect for those looking to purchase wine to lay down for future consumption, children or godchildren. It offers a great way to commemorate a year and holds considerable fascination for many a collector. 2007 is the third vintage to be declared this decade, preceded by 2003 and 2000 and is very likely to be the last.
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