NV d'Arenberg Rare Tawny Port Nostalgia
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
A blend of Grenache and Shiraz, the NV The Nostalgia Port gives a pale amber color and nose of spice cake, dates, preserved raisins and fig paste. Concentrated, viscous, sweet and rich, it has plenty of crisp acid lingering into the long nutty finish. Drink it now. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA, www.oldbridgecellars.com
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Nutty and rancio. Chocolate, black treacle, brisk acid, good length. Classic tawny character on the nose with fruit punch to finish. (RH)
The Non-Vintage Rare Tawny offers nutty aromas and flavors. It is a straightforward effort that can be enjoyed now in the manner of Tawny Port from Oporto. D’Arenberg has been owned and operated by the Osborn family since its inception in 1912. The portfolio, with a focus on Rhone varietals, is wide-ranging and value-oriented from top to bottom. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552; www.darenberg.com.au; Also tasted: 2005 The Stump Jump Shiraz (82), 2005 The Custodian Grenache (84), 2005 Sticks and Stones Tempranillo, Grenache, Souzao (84)
This is a terrific bargain. A sensational effort is d'Arenberg's non-vintage Rare Tawny, believed to be 12-15 years old. The deep amber color is followed by a stunningly rich bouquet offering scents of figs, buttered nuts, smoke, prunes, and sweet dark fruits. It is full-bodied and unctuous, yet remarkably fresh and vibrant. This sensational Tawny should continue to drink well for another decade. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars (Rob McDonald), Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552