ABV: 20%
Size: 75cl
Country: Portugal
Region: Douro Valley - Port Wine
Description
Gould Campbell Vintage Port 2000 is a superbly evolved example from an outstanding year, combining concentrated dried fruit intensity with finely tuned tertiary complexity and a long, resonant finish. The colour is deep ruby with garnet edges showing mature development while the core retains impressive depth. The nose opens with stewed black cherry, black plum and fig conserve, then unfurls layers of leather, cigar box and old cedar. With airing tertiary notes of dried orange peel, tobacco leaf, forest floor and sweet spice emerge alongside a subtle balsamic lift and a faint mineral thread.
On the palate the wine is full bodied yet elegantly poised, the sweetness perfectly contained by fresh acidity and polished, integrated tannins that give backbone and length. Primary fruit has evolved to rich dried and stewed tones of raisin and prune, complemented by complex layers of dark chocolate, espresso and toasted walnut. A savoury umami seam of soy and olive tapenade adds depth on the mid palate and leads into a long finish that closes on candied peel, cedar and a warm spice echo.
The 2000 vintage produced concentrated, structured Ports with generous fruit and excellent ageing potential; this bottle shows the reward of patient cellaring, now offering a generous tertiary bouquet while retaining vibrancy. Drink 2026 to 2040. Serve slightly cooler than room temperature in small glasses. Match with blue cheese such as Stilton, walnut and chocolate desserts, dark chocolate truffles, sticky date pudding or mature hard cheeses. Decant gently if there is sediment and enjoy with time in the glass to savour its evolving aromatic layers.
THE WINE ADVOCATE 92 points
Drink Date 2010 - 2030
Reviewed by Robert M. Parker, Jr.
"A stunning offering, this is the finest port yet tasted from Gould Campbell. Its saturated purple color is accompanied by aromas of chocolate, blackberry liqueur, smoke, and white flowers. Packed and stacked, with moderate sweetness, high tannin, and a formidable, backstrapping intensity, this impeccably made, rich 2000 will drink well between 2010-2030. A sleeper!"
