650 year anniversary of the Anglo-Portugal alliance.

[Eric Ifune]

An interesting youtube video sponsored by Taylor Fladgate.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcjqL5yAUnQ

[Alan Gardner]

Hi Eric,
Only just saw this.
Very interesting - particulaly as it is only the 637th Anniversary!!!!!!!!!!!!

How do I know this?

In 1986 Christie's had their first (and only?) auction of Vintage Port & Madeira - I attended and there are numerous references in the catalogue to the signing on 9 May, 1386 and this auction to celebrate the 600th anniversary.
My copy is marked up - and you don't want to know the prices (unless you can acquire a time machine).

I had a budget to spend on old Ports - but Bern (of Bern's Steakhouse in Miami) outbid me on everything (no local taxes and deductible as a business for him). That left me with my entire budget to spend on the afternoon session - which included Madeira. One of the best outcomes ever (in hindsight).

[Eric Ifune]

Alan,
Nice. Christies has a case of old Port for me in London. Waiting for the weather here to cool before getting it sent.

[Alan Gardner]

We can't ship to Canada - in practice. Theoretically it can be done but we have to do it through an "authorized customs broker" and we are charged Provincial mark ups - essentially around 100% in taxes/duties PLUS the brokerage charges (and shipping) - and there's only ONE authorized broker in Ontario for alcohol, so they can charge whatever they like.
And then that markup is also charged on the shipping and brokerage fees!
So, my buying at auction has essentially ceased.

But enjoy your purchases.

[Eric Menchen]

Very interesting - particulaly as it is only the 637th Anniversary!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Treaty of Windsor dates to 1386, but it was preceded by the Anglo-Portuguese Treaty of 1373.

[Alan Gardner]

Thanks Eric,
I do note the various 'suspensions' of that Treaty.
Perhaps we can agree that the Treaty Of Windsor is the oldest CONTINUING treaty.

I'll happily raise a toast to either!

[Eric Menchen]

Churchill noted the earlier year when he addressed Parliament during WWII announcing the base lease in the Azores. Since I went to Winston Churchill High School, I'm going with that one. But I'll drink to either year.