For The Love Of Port

Graham’s 20 Year Old Tawny [NV – No Vintage]

Upon decanting, very light pink with secondary orange colours, but thin mouthfeel, with no grip at all. Weak, yet sweet. I never would have believed I would say this about Port but it is almost too sweet. Caramel with a nutty disposition.

After a day of decanting a bit of grip was evident with more complex flavours. Even the colour had a bit of evolution, turning a lot more tawny orange with a brown rim. A touch of floral scent on the nose. I’m not sure whether there is sufficient acidity to balance off the sweetness. Still very sweet, simple but a bit disappointingly thin. I have to say I was expecting a lot more from this Port and based on this, not sure I would expend the extra money to step up to the 30 or 40 year offering from Graham.

Todd, I buy this port because on most days it is the only aged tawny my retailer sells. But I prefer the Taylor by far.

I'll admit that as far as tawnies go, the Graham's 20 has always been a favorite of mine. I do not, however, think the 30 or 40 is appreciably better.

I do not wish to imply that I don't enjoy the Graham's 20 year. I just find the Taylor superior. And I agree, the 30 & 40 years are not worth the added cost.

Well Robert, a guy has to buy what a guy has to buy huh?!

I would probably buy it again, but I think I agree with your assessment - I also prefer the Taylor's 20, perhaps because it has a better grip, more viscous mouthfeel and more presence on the palate. I think I also prefer the Warre Otima 20 as well.

I'd love to do a 'horizontal' of sorts with 20 yr Tawnies... I am attempting to plan a 10 yr horizontal with some friends in the new year, but the 20 would be a bit pricer.