Burmester, 1955

Colheita port

Description and Reviews:
Burmester, 1955
Colheita Port

Summary

A rare and distinguished single-harvest Tawny Port from the outstanding 1955 vintage, Burmester 1955 Colheita has spent decades maturing in seasoned oak casks in Vila Nova de Gaia. Extended ageing has refined the wine into a beautifully complex and elegant expression of time, where concentration is balanced by remarkable freshness and finesse.

Tasting Notes

After more than half a century of slow oxidative ageing, the wine shows a deep amber-mahogany colour with golden highlights. The nose is intensely aromatic, revealing layers of toasted almonds, walnut, orange peel, caramelised figs and delicate spice.

On the palate it is silky and remarkably harmonious. Flavours of dried fruits, honey, roasted nuts and hints of coffee and molasses unfold gradually, supported by vibrant acidity that keeps the wine fresh and focused. The finish is exceptionally long, leaving lingering notes of spice, citrus peel and aged wood.

Vintage Overview

The 1955 growing season in the Douro was characterised by balanced climatic conditions that allowed the grapes to ripen steadily. The harvest produced wines with excellent concentration and structure, well suited to long ageing. While the year is best known for its classic Vintage Ports, the finest parcels also produced remarkable Colheitas that have developed extraordinary complexity with time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly chilled at around 12–14°C in a small Port or white wine glass. This Colheita pairs beautifully with nut-based desserts, crème brûlée, dried fruit pastries, or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner wine.

Cellaring

Fully matured and ready to enjoy now, but once bottled it will remain stable for many years if stored upright in a cool, dark place.