Wiese & Krohn was founded in 1865 by two Norwegians - Theodor Wiese and Dankert Krohn - shipping initially to Scandinavia and Germany. In the century and a half since its foundation, Krohn has built up an outstanding reputation. Long renowned for the quality of their sublime Colheitas (single vintage tawnies), they produce a remarkably complete range for a small house, and each wine excels in its category. Much of the secret lies in the high quality of their vineyards - the magical combination of terroir, locality, aspect, incline and low-yielding vines. Their Quinta do Retiro Novo estate in Sarzedinho, in the Rio Torto valley (where vinification takes place), is all A grade vineyard. Indeed Krohn only work with grapes from A-graded vineyards across all of their ports, and their top wines are still trodden by foot.
A hot August in 2009 caused the grapes to reach a high level of maturity. Harvest began in the first few days of September, and the quality was very good, though the yield was a little lower than expected.
Quality is determined by the grape varieties, by the age of the vines, their method of training and the density of planting. All these factors are officially converted into points, the sum of which determines the final classification of the property. Here this sum exceeds 1200 points, ensuring it belongs to a select group of "Class A" properties. During vinification, great importance is given to both modern technology balanced by traditional wine making methods. So old lagares (open granite tanks about 75 cm high) are still used to make the best Ports with traditional foot treading of the grapes without any mechanical crushing. Modern stainless steel lagares are also used where sophisticated robots simulate the human treading of the grapes. Fermentation is interrupted by the addition of grape brandy, to preserve a degree of natural sweetness.
Quinta do Retiro Novo DOC Porto 2009 is a rich, dark Port, packed full of pure bramble fruit, very concentrated with structured tannins, balancing acidity and notes of chocolate and caramel. Full-bodied and long. Decant and serve with Steak au Poivre, or following a meal enjoy with sweet tarts and cakes
Country: Portugal
Region: Douro
Grapes: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinta Barroca
ABV: 20%
Volume: 75cl
Vintage: 2009
Suitable for Vegetarians: Yes
Suitable for Vegans: No
