At a glance

Producer

Graham's (Symington Family Estates Vinhos Lda)

Region

Porto DOC, Douro, Portugal

Grape variety

Touriga Franca (47%), Touriga Nacional (35%), Sousão (11%), Old mixed vines (field blend) (7%)

Wine type

Fortified

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Sweet

Typical price

$150-$250 USD

Tasting profile

Powerful dark berry fruit, black cherry, plum, violet, intense spice, and cocoa notes with firm tannins.

Evolution: Will develop tertiary aromas of leather, tobacco, forest floor, and dried fruit with age.

At peak: Silky tannins, complex aromatic layers, balanced sweetness and acidity with a long, elegant finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balanced by sweetness

Tannins

High, firm and structured

Alcohol

Typically around 20% ABV

Aging potential

40-60+ years under ideal cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2040 to 2060

Optimal window

2030 to 2067

Current status

Young and evolving, best approached with patience

Current condition

Firm tannins, rich concentrated fruit; requires cellaring to soften and develop complexity

The 2017 vintage shows excellent fruit concentration and structure typical of Graham's, supported by balanced acidity and tannins. Given its powerful youth, long aging unlocks complex tertiary characters and silky textures, consistent with historic drinking windows for top Graham’s Vintage Ports.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with blue cheese, aged hard cheeses, dark chocolate desserts, roasted nuts, and rich game dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften the tannins and allow aromatic complexity to develop before serving.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, water conservation techniques, energy-efficient winery operations, use of recycled packaging materials.

While Graham’s Vintage Port is not certified organic or biodynamic, the Symington family estate prioritizes sustainability with progressive farming and winery practices minimizing chemical use and resource consumption. The fortified nature and traditional methods mean longevity and minimal waste. Transport emissions exist due to international distribution but are managed with efficiency in mind.