Cálem LBV 2016

The 2016 Vintage Port is a roughly equal blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz, with 10% Sousão, coming in at 96 grams of residual sugar. If the Kopke is not the best of the Sogevinus stable this issue (others include Barros and Burmester), this is. It may not have as much pure power and concentration as the Kopke, but it is fresher, with more lifted fruit and more vivid flavors. If you're comparing, it is probably closest to the Barros in style, but it takes the Barros, adds acidity and power, and basically supercharges it. It is wonderfully elegant, if not as lush as the Kopke. Beautifully done, it isn't too bad to drink now, but give it 5-7 years to settle down. The acidity will help preserve it as it ages. This was only in bottle for about two weeks when seen. It should flesh out and improve over the next decade or so.

A little meager on the palate with a medium to full body, chewy tannins and a firmness to the finish. Needs a little more punch in the center palate. Drink in 2023.