Taylor Fladgate Special Tawny Port NV

Winery Background and History

Taylor, Fladgate & Yeatman (commonly Taylor’s) is one of the most historic and respected Port houses in Portugal, founded in 1692, operating in Vila Nova de Gaia with cellars aging their wines in oak casks.  They are known for producing a broad range of Ports—Vintage, Tawny, Ruby, White, LBV—and maintaining a house style that emphasizes elegance, balance, and longevity.

Producer and Wine Maker

The wine is produced by Taylor Fladgate’s blending and ageing team. For “Special Tawny,” the team selects younger tawny lots and matures them in oak to produce a style that is approachable but still carries the hallmark oxidation, nutty aromas, and complexity of aged Port.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes used derive from various vineyards across the Douro Valley, from multiple subregions. The Douro’s climate is continental with hot summers, cold winters, and sharp diurnal shifts. The schist soils and steep terraces encourage concentration in the grapes, while the climate ensures adequate ripening balanced with acidity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The wine undergoes the traditional Port method—fermentation is arrested by addition of grape spirit (fortification). The resulting wine is then aged oxidatively in oak casks (warehouses in Gaia) for several years before bottling. As a “Special Tawny” (without a specific age statement), it is a blend of multiple vintages selected to fit the house profile of this tawny style.

Tasting Notes

Pale amber to light tawny in color. Aromas of dried apricot, almond, caramel, orange peel, and toasted nuts. On the palate it is medium-sweet, with nutty character, gentle oxidized notes, dried fruit, subtle spice, and a smooth texture. The finish is clean, with lingering nut and dried citrus peel notes. Retailers describe it as “fresh, clean and straightforward” with “silky texture.” 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs well with desserts like crème brûlée, caramel flan, nut tarts, or almond cake. Also excellent with aged cheeses, nuts, dried fruits (figs, apricots), or as an after-dinner sipper.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve slightly chilled, around 12-14 °C (54-57 °F). Use a port glass or small white wine glass to focus aromas. No decanting required since sediment is unlikely in this style.

Storage and Aging Potential

Because it is already aged and blended, further bottle aging has limited effect. Once opened, store corked in a cool place and consume within a few weeks to retain freshness.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

A blend of red Douro varieties (typical grapes: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca etc.), though the precise proportions for this label are proprietary and not publicly specified.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 19-20 % ABV (typical fortification level for Port)