Smith Woodhouse, 1975

Vintage Port

Description and Reviews:
Smith Woodhouse, 1975 Vintage Port

Vintage & Background
Founded in 1784, Smith Woodhouse is one of the historic names in Port, known for producing elegant and long-lived wines from prime vineyards in the Cima Corgo. The 1975 vintage was a challenging but ultimately rewarding year: a cool spring and uneven flowering were followed by a warm summer and favourable harvest conditions, yielding wines of balance and finesse. While not declared by all houses, Smith Woodhouse produced a beautifully structured and refined Vintage Port that has matured gracefully over five decades.

Appearance & Nose
Brick-garnet core with a tawny rim, showing its maturity. The bouquet is lifted and complex, offering aromas of dried cherry, fig, cedar, orange peel, and tobacco leaf. Hints of rose petal, spice box, and polished wood add further depth with aeration.

Palate & Texture
Silky and harmonious on the palate, this mature Vintage Port combines sweet red fruit, sultana, and caramelised plum with savoury layers of walnut, leather, and fine spice. The tannins are fully resolved, and the acidity provides freshness and balance, leading to a long, elegant finish marked by dried fruit and subtle mocha notes.

Serving & Cellaring
Decant gently to remove sediment and allow the wine to breathe. Best enjoyed within a few hours of opening. Fully mature now but will hold for another decade in good cellars.