Calem Port, 2012 Vintage Port
Vintage Port| Presented in Gift Box
91 Points - Wine Advocate
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Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 20%
Price:
£30.00
Description
A Classic Expression from Cálem
The Cálem Vintage Port 2012 represents a thoughtful expression of one of Portugal’s most respected port houses. Founded in 1859, Cálem has built a reputation for producing ports that balance tradition with a distinctive, fruit-forward style. In 2012, despite challenging conditions, the house chose to declare a vintage, showcasing their commitment to excellence and careful vineyard selection.
Aromas of Depth and Elegance
This vintage port opens with an intense, almost opaque purple hue that hints at its concentration. The nose is layered and inviting, offering aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and juicy plums. These primary fruit notes are elegantly lifted by subtle floral hints of violet, along with touches of dark chocolate and warming spice, creating a complex and harmonious bouquet.
A Structured and Refined Palate
On the palate, the 2012 Cálem Vintage Port is full-bodied and rich, displaying concentrated dark fruit flavors supported by firm yet polished tannins. There is a gentle freshness that balances the wine’s richness, contributing to a long, satisfying finish. While already approachable after decanting, this vintage has the structure and depth to continue aging gracefully for several decades.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Decanting is recommended to fully reveal the wine’s character and allow it to breathe. It pairs beautifully with strong blue cheeses, such as Stilton, and complements rich chocolate-based desserts. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner drink, offering a memorable way to close a meal.
A Wine with Long-Term Potential
The Cálem Vintage Port 2012 stands out as a rewarding choice for collectors and enthusiasts interested in exploring a less widely declared but high-quality vintage. With proper cellaring, it promises to evolve beautifully, gaining complexity and nuance over time. Whether enjoyed now or kept for future occasions, it reflects both the resilience of the 2012 vintage and the craftsmanship of Cálem.
Learn more about Calem
Condition
Excellent
Reviews
***91 Points- Wine Advocate (MS) April 2015***
The 2012 Vintage Port is a roughly equal blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz (30%), with Sousão (10%). It comes in at 88 grams per liter of residual sugar. This is a rather dry Port on paper and the only declared 2012 Vintage Port for those submitted by Sogevinus this issue. It was just a better vintage there, Sogevinus said. Frankly, as compared to the Kopke and the Burmester at least, also reviewed this issue, it is pretty close, depending on when you stop airing them out. I would have to agree that this is the best, however, after retasting them all the next day: First, it has the most weight, by a small margin. It has the best balance, too. Finally, and particularly, it is the most expressive and vibrant in the character of its fruit. Only the Kopke in the Sogevinus lineup really projects that demeanor, but this adds just a bit more concentration. After a sweet start, its lifted and well-integrated demeanor becomes more impressive, ending in a wonderfully juicy and subtly concentrated finish. If it is not quite the superstar of the group, it probably does have some bragging rights. It is pretty nice overall.