Self Guided Tour
Barrel Room
Here is where we store our barrels of special reserve Port and Brandy.
Port is classified as a fortified wine, meaning that a type of brandy is added post fermentation. We do this while the wine is maturing in large oak casks or barrels. Brandy is a liquor produced by distilling wine.
The wooden casks, aged and weathered, tell stories of time and tradition. Each barrel is meticulously crafted, allowing the spirits within to mature gracefully, absorbing the rich flavors of the oak. The cellar itself, with its intentionally cool, steady climate and dim lighting, is the perfect environment for this delicate process. Here, the spirits are nurtured, developing their complex profiles.
The influence of oak on the taste of wine and port is profound and multifaceted, adding layers of complexity and depth to the final product. When wine is aged in oak barrels, it undergoes a series of chemical transformations that enhance its flavor profile. The wood imparts subtle notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, which can complement and elevate the natural fruitiness of the wine. Additionally, the oak allows for controlled oxidation, softening tannins, and enriching the wine's texture. The type of oak—whether American, French, or another variety—as well as the size and age of the barrels, further nuances the taste, making oak-aging a critical element in the winemaker's craft.
Another tool used in the barrel room to ensure the quality and consistency of the wine is the wine thief, as seen in the picture above. A wine thief is a specialized tool, typically a glass or plastic tube, designed to extract samples of wine from barrels. This tool allows us to monitor the wine's development, checking for taste, aroma, color, and chemical composition at various stages of the aging process. The wine thief helps maintain the integrity of the wine by minimizing contamination. We are able to extract samples without exposing the entire batch to air or contaminants, thereby ensuring that the wine remains as pure and untainted as possible.
When you sip our finely crafted Port, you’ll taste not only the sweetness of the grapes but the essence of our land, the integrity of our methods, and the love we pour into each barrel. We invite you to become a part of our story, to savor the fruits of our labor and dedication. Join us in 2025 to uncork our first 5-year port crafted from the first vintage produced by our vineyards. CLICK HERE to sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know!
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