Vineyards
Offley Boa Vista 1972 is sourced from the historic Boa Vista vineyard, located in the heart of the Douro Valley, Portugal. This exceptional vineyard features schistous soils and terraced vineyards that cling to steep slopes along the Douro River. The unique terroir promotes low yields and concentrated fruit, making it ideal for producing high-quality vintage Ports. The vineyard is planted with traditional Douro grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca, all carefully tended to by experienced viticulturists.
Winemaking
The grapes were hand-harvested and foot-trodden in traditional granite lagares, a method that ensures gentle extraction of colour and tannins. Fermentation was halted by the addition of grape spirit, preserving the natural sweetness of the wine. The Port was then aged in large oak vats for a short period before being bottled unfiltered to retain its structure and complexity. Decades of bottle ageing have allowed this vintage to develop remarkable depth and elegance.
Appearance
A deep amber core with mahogany highlights and a subtle tawny rim, indicative of its maturity.
Nose
The nose is intensely aromatic, offering a complex bouquet of dried figs, raisins, and prunes, interwoven with notes of roasted nuts, toffee, and hints of spice, such as cinnamon and clove.
Palate
Rich and full-bodied, the palate reveals layers of dried fruits, caramel, and dark chocolate, balanced by a refreshing acidity. The fine-grained tannins have softened beautifully over time, leading to a long, smooth finish with lingering notes of walnut and spice.
Food pairing
This vintage Port pairs perfectly with blue cheeses such as Stilton or Roquefort, rich chocolate desserts, or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner drink.
Background story
Offley, founded in 1737, is one of Portugal’s most iconic Port houses, known for blending tradition with innovation. The Boa Vista vineyard, acquired by Offley in the early 20th century, has been a cornerstone of the brand’s legacy, producing some of its most celebrated Ports. The 1972 vintage, crafted under the watchful eye of Offley’s expert winemakers, is a rare gem that embodies the heritage and quality for which the house is renowned.