For The Love Of Port

After an amazing dinner which consisted of Foie Gras (my uncle from CA made us order it due to its unavailibility in San Fran) escargots in a sherry cream sauce, 5 spiced duck breast, and quail with which we shared a 1961 Lynch Bages, we returned home and decided on this bottle which, for me, is sentimental, as it was one of the first Madeiras I had ever had. We opened this and poured a few glasses and noticed the deep crust on the shoulder of the bottle. I do not remember this heave of sediment deposit on the last bottles I have opened. First thing you notice is the deep, dark, non-transparent color of this wine. Then, the searing acidity and wood varnish (shelack) greets you to remind you of the seriousness of this wine. Typical notes of varnish, citrus, allspice meet your palate with acidity, while seemingly demonstrating the perfect level of sweetness and richness balanced with acidity without it being cloying. The mouthfeel is so rich, round and complete. And the finish goes on and on. This is surely a Madeira for sipping and small doses. One of my favorites I have ever had.

No bottling date on bottle.

One of the best Verdelho's I've ever had as well. Maybe only the 1850 tops it.