Friday Night Casual Port Around the Fire Pit Recap

[John M.]

Last Friday evening I had 4 Port Lovers (local friends) over for a socially distanced outdoor gathering that was Port centric. The only parameter was bring something at least 20 years old properly decanted with one given a pass on a bottle in exchange for taking care of the charcuterie. We ended up with two Vintage Ports, an LBV and a Colheita...tasted in that order. Here's the ReCap:

1982 Martinez Vintage Port - Decanted 6 hours ahead (no sooner because rather rough after 3 hours). It had leaked slightly in the past. Touch of earthiness, the fruit is resolved out and has a sweet, lingering finish. Rather simple with all its flavor up front with a soft finish. I had another of these within the year which was much better (both were leakers); that one was a more distinct and complex in its flavor profile.

87 Points

1985 Burmester Vintage Port - Decanted 4 Hours. Just picked a bunch of these from the auction house warehouse a few weeks ago. This one started leaking as soon as laid down so it went on the drink now list. Purple to ruby rim. A muted nose and moderate weight. A bit of strawberry on entry with just a hint of spice, finish is a little dry, clean and tart. Overall, a mellow VP and an easy drinker.

91 Points

1994 Warres LBV - For 26 years old still dark and brooding. Fruit forward with mixed dark berries; still has good tannic structure. It punches like it is far younger both in color and taste. Not overly sweet, not too complex but a super LBV with a lot of life left.

91 Points

1997 Dalva Colheita - Big nutty nose with touches of all spice. The taste is liquid cashews and pecans mixed with cooked blood orange with a dollop of honey. Sweetness is moderate. Very easy to sip outside on a cool evening with good company.

92 Points