W. & J. Graham's 1997 Single Harvest Tawny Port / 20% / 0.75l

The history of the brand connects two families - Graham and Symington, both of Scottish origin. Founded in 1820 by brothers William and John Graham, the company focused from the beginning on creating high-quality port wines. They quickly gained a reputation as one of the best producers of this drink. An important moment, underlining their dedication and constant pursuit of excellence, was the construction of the famous Graham's Lodge in Gaia and the acquisition of Quinta dos Malvedros in 1890. This estate became one of the most distinguished vineyards in the Douro region, providing excellent grapes for the creation of outstanding Vintage Ports, Single Harvest and other excellent wines from individual vintages. The Symington family tied their fates with the Graham family when James Symington came to Portugal in 1882 to work for the Graham company. James later founded his own wine company, but the full merger of both families took place in 1970, when the Symingtons took over the Graham company. Since then they have continued to build on their legacy under their renowned banner.

With over 50 years of care by the Symington family, Graham's is now present in over 80 countries and is served by some of the world's most distinguished restaurants. In recent years, it has introduced a number of unique Ports, such as Ne Oublie, dating back to 1882, and a Tawny Port from a single harvest in 1952. The producer currently grows grapes on four estates: Quinta dos Malvedos, Quinta do Tua, Quinta da Vila Velha and Quinta do Vale de Malhadas.

W. & J. Graham's 1997 Single Harvest Tawny Port

The 1997 vintage was described as very good in the Douro. Several of the best wines were selected from that year to create a great port. Charles Symington, who succeeded his father as head winemaker in 2009, used the barrels selected by his father Peter, and selected others himself that had special characteristics to create Graham's 1997 Single Harvest Tawny. On the nose it is very elegant and full, with aromas of caramel, dried fruit and figs. On the palate it further emphasizes its fullness with accents of nuts and citrus. The finish is long and harmonious, with a distinct tobacco nuance.

It tastes best served at a temperature of 14-16 degrees. It is worth sticking to the given range to be able to appreciate the harmony and finesse of this wine. In culinary combinations, it will work well with chocolate-based desserts, with the addition of dried fruit and dried fruits. Hard cheeses will also be suitable here.