Colheita

Colheita is a type of Tawny port made with single-harvest grapes. They have to be aged for at least seven years, though most producers opt for longer barrel maturation and decide to bottle it when the wine is ready and considered of sufficient quality.

During wood maturation, the wine will become smooth and develop complex aromas and flavors reminiscent of dried fruits, spices, nuts, and citrus fruits. Colheita is a style of exceptional quality that is usually reasonably priced. It is quite rare, and only around 1% of port production is designated to become Colheita.

It is sometimes labeled as Single Harvest Reserve or Port of the Vintage, and each bottle will carry both the vintage and the bottling date. Colheita should be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. It pairs well with pastries, custards, and cakes.