Tasting Notes
My love for Vintage Port is no secret to those who know me. A sabbatical at The Fladgate Partnership in vintage 2003 gave me a insightful look into Port production at Quinta de Vargellas (Taylors), Quinta do Roeda (Delaforce, Croft) and Quinta do Panascal (Fonseca). A three-hour 'Corte' of foot treading was performed to extract colour, flavour and fine tannins. Natural yeast fermentation progressed over 78 hours before pressing then fortification with a blend of white Brandy spirits selected to add character and compliment the base wine. Maturation for 24 month in seasoned French oak with a single racking and regular topping. RS of 80 g/L, which is a touch drier than most Portuguese VP's, although the apparent sweetness looks much higher. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. - Winery Note
Coates Wines is the hard work of winemaker and viticulturist Duane Coates MW, who has gained a reputation for thoughtful, classically styled wines that bridge the best of Old World sensibility and New World fruit. Based in McLaren Vale but sourcing fruit from select sites across South Australia—including Adelaide Hills, Langhorne Creek and Coonawarra—Coates crafts wines that reflect regional character while maintaining a consistent house style of elegance and balance.
The range is broad, spanning Shiraz, Cabernet, Grenache and Chardonnay through to Italian and Iberian-inspired varieties such as Negroamaro, Montepulciano and Touriga. Farming is based on sustainable practices, and in the winery Duane employs minimal intervention, spontaneous ferments and careful élevage in seasoned oak, with an eye to texture, complexity and longevity.
Coates’ wines are recognised for their refinement and structure, offering depth and regional identity while remaining food-friendly and approachable. As both a Master of Wine and a hands-on producer, Duane Coates has positioned his label as one of South Australia’s most distinctive and cerebral boutique wineries.
| Product Type | Wine Fortified |
| Volume | 500ml |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | South Australia |
| Sub Region | Langhorne Creek |
| Winemaking Practices | Conventional |
| Vineyard Practices | Conventional |