Traditional grape varieties are sourced from the Quinta do Retiro estate and neighbouring growers in the Rio Torto Valley. Here old vines are planted in schistous soils. Fermentation is interrupted by the addition of grape spirit to preserve a certain degree of natural sweetness. The Port spends at least 10 years maturing in wood, before being bottled, unfiltered, to order. For the 2003 vintage a wet winter and spring were followed by warm weather, especially in August when some very high temperatures were experienced. The harvest began in the first half of September, with a relatively average yield, but the grapes showing a high concentration and sweetness, and good quality. A deep red colour with an outer red-brown rim showing some maturity. Racy, powerful aromas of spice and fruit cake. This is an appealing Colheita, smooth and rich in the mouth with ripe plum and fig characters, dried fruit and brown spice - full and balanced with great length.