2003 Taylor Fladgate LBV Port

[Tim Swaback]

My first tasting note ever so bear with me on this one. I've loved port for many years and have decided to take the plunge and really try to get to know the stuff. My previous experience has been unguided <$20 purchases. Today I am trying to discern the differences between a Tawny and a LBV port. I will make another post for the Tawny TN's. The two ports are:

2003 Taylor Fladgate LBV
Quarles Harris 10yr Tawny

The Taylor is a very dark purple compared to the light amber color of the Tawny. I get almost no perceptible alcohol on the nose, only faint berries. The first taste is very balanced. There is a hint of alcohol but it is not overpowering. I taste a small amount of black licorice but it is hidden behind a very juicy initial flavor. The taste lingers for 15 seconds or so.

[Glenn E.]

A great first note!

I love the 2003 Taylor Fladgate LBV. It certainly is juicy, isn't it?

[Jeff Allison]

I just picked up a bottle of this after recently enjoying a 2003 DOW LBV.

Should I just pop and pour and follow it for how ever long the bottle lasts (How long will it last once open)? Or would this benefit from a decant and be best consumed on the 1st day?

[Glenn E.]

Jeff,

Pop & pour seems fine (to me) for this LBV. I've had bottles open for 4-5 days before without any significant deterioration, but I wouldn't expect it to last too much longer than that simply because it is a filtered LBV.

Something I've done before which turns out to be a lot of fun is to take a tasting note every night for however long the bottle lasts. That will let you see how it evolves over time, plus it gives you a great excuse to have a glass of Port every night!

[Jeff Allison]

Glenn,

I like your style.

With lows between 11 and -16 the next 5 nights, port will fit the bill as the perfect after dinner drink by the fire.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Jeff Allison]

I opened this on Tuesday and enjoyed a glass and had another taste last night. First night the alcohol was noticeable and it was a bit tart on the finish. Other than that is had a nice nose of anise and dark fruits. My 2nd taste on it's 3rd day of being opened was much better. Seemed to be much more in balance with no hints of alcohol or the tart finish. Rich and full bodied, nice nose similar to day one. Had a nice feel, but a little lacking and finish was fairly short.

A nice LBV that I will follow over the next week or so. I would place the 2003 Dow LBV I had recently above this.