Five bottles Graham’s
Produced by W. & J. Graham
1977 vintage
Vintage Port, Portugal
Original filling quantity: 0.75 l
Fill level: into neck
Robert Parker (1989): 93/100
James Suckling (2008): 91/100

This lot comprises five bottles of 1977 vintage Graham’s produced by W. & J. Graham in Portugal.

Port is an absolute classic of the wine world that originates from the Douro Valley. Vines for red and white port grow on impressive slate terraces on the vertiginous, steep slopes along the Rio Douro. The history of the vine-growing region stretches far back into antiquity. Some of the archaic wine production methods of that time remain unchanged: in Lagares, for example, grapes are still pressed manually, by foot. Over 80 different vine types may be used for the wine – another archaic feature, namely genetic abundance in the vineyard instead of vine purity. Port itself only came about during the 17th century, when British wine merchants began looking for a strong, transportable wine. Due to this, the fermentation process of the wines was halted with strong brandy, thereby preserving its natural sweetness. The methods used in creating port have changed very little to this day. Port wines are very sweet early on and have a high alcohol and tannin content. They require a lot of time to refine their flavor, which accounts for the number of different ripening methods from which various port styles developed. The most important ripening method is Tawny: the finest Tawny is ripened in barrels for over 6 years, then bottled and sold. It stands out due to its fine aroma that ages well and contains hints of nut and almond. Vintage port remains the most prominent port style, however. These wines are only created during special years, from a single vintage. After maturing in a barrel for two to three years, they are bottled and sold. However, they are still a long way off their optimal maturity and require decades of storage. After about 30 to 40 years, the wines reach their peak, which lasts for many years. Great vintage ports transcend time and perishability thanks to their longevity.

The 1977 vintage Graham’s Vintage Port was rated 93 points by Robert Parker in 1989. The wine was rated 91 points by James Suckling in 2008.

The fill levels are excellent (into neck). Some labels are soiled and slightly damaged; the capsules are in perfect condition.

Shipping costs excl. statutory VAT and plus 2,5% (+VAT) shipping insurance.