Michael Broadbent "The Great Vintage Wine Book"
Many notes. After bottling, vigorous, plenty of ‘grip”; two years later still purple, with spicy fruit lurking beneath the brandy; intense, powerful. In 1990 I noted the leaness and acidity - its vibrant nervous system. By the mid-1990s, surprising sweetness, attractive fruit, elegance, soft, figgy nose, good texture. Most recently I recorded a dry finish but perfect ripeness. ****
For the Love of Port
Possibly the darkest and most extracted color of the night, opaque and inky. This is always a tremendous Vintage Port and way up in the 1985 pecking order. A fragrant floral bouquet with boysenberry and kirsch dominating the air space. Great concentration of fruit, a freshness that stands out with primary plum and ripe, off dry blackcurrant flavors. Packed with intensity, in a youthful, fruit forward, muscular frame. The medium-body of this Dow belies the density that gives it a more massive feeling. At the same time it can seem light and glides effortlessly across the palate. The persistence of the layered finish is a significant strength. Drink now with a long decant time, or cellar for up to another quarter century. 93 Points
International Wine Challenge 2009
A spicy eucalyptus nose, with black cherry peppery fruit, long firm finish. Dry and complex, with a long life ahead. Score: Gold Medal
