Dalva Colheita 1990 port wine

93 points - Robert Parker: "The 1990 Colheita Tawny Port from Dalva, bottled in March 2019, is a blend of traditional grapes such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz, among others. With 138 grams per liter of residual sugar, it offers more complexity than the 1995 version, featuring hints of molasses and caramel, though it may not be as fresh. However, it maintains enough freshness and delivers a powerful finish. Initially, the alcohol seemed prominent, but it mellowed as it sat in the glass. This Tawny impresses with its complexity, even if it isn't the freshest option. Those who value depth will appreciate it nonetheless."

The 1990 Colheita from Dalva is aged in barrels from the harvest year and only bottled just before being released to the market. With nearly 20 years of barrel aging, Dalva Colheita 1990 achieves a perfect balance of power and elegance. Its flavor profile includes notes of dark dried fruits, plums, and hazelnuts, with a sweetness that is well-balanced by a good acidity. This barrel-aged port is superbly rounded yet retains enough character and vitality to complement rich desserts or strong cheeses.

Dalva, a port wine house with a rich tradition, was established in 1862. It was acquired in the 1920s by Brazilian C. Da. Silva through his wife's family, transitioning from a local Portuguese market to exporting to Brazil, North America, and later Asia and Europe. In the early 1970s, Dalva shifted its production strategy. Previously, they purchased unaged wine from other producers for aging and bottling. Over the next decade, Dalva began cultivating its own grapes, built a winery on the estate, and focused on enhancing quality. This strategic shift paid off in 1978 with the production of their first "homegrown" vintage port. Today, Dalva is a highly respected port wine house, particularly known for its expertise in tawny and white ports from the past century.