The bottle was in Sotheby's black Massandra collection wine -package, wrapped in transparent foil which was twisted around the top and bottom of the bottle, with Sotheby's massandra-label sticked on foil (Sotheby auctions these Massandra-bottles every now and then). It was kept upright two weeks prior to opening in order that sediment can settle the bottom. There was brown wax capsule which brokened in pieces almost from touch, and short cork pulled off easily. I was a little worried at this point, but I smelled cork and it seems that wine was ok (the ullage was top shoulder which was also good indicate). It was decanted 3 hours before tasting. Mahogany-red color which was a little dull due to very subtle sediment. The nose showed plum, herbs and it was a little stinging (due to alcohol?). And then the taste: Nice, medium acids, very sweet taste without real fruitiness. Aftertaste was short and dominated by alcohol. Interesting! Never taste this kind of combination before! Really unique port experience!
Well, what can I say? Unique experience indeed, but not any mind-blowing. The lack of fruitiness and tannins weren't just match my palate. Based on this bottle, the Tsar's legacy seems to be somehow overhyped
88 points.
-Antti-
