For The Love Of Port

I got this little gift set from a generous friend and last weekend my son and I tried them out. The little bottles were about a pour each, and split there was hardly enough to do an honest assessment. But we did our level best. Scores are mine, although our ranking is identical. One thing that struck us is that all four looked the same--impossible to differentiate based on color.

Quinta das Carvalhas 10 Year - Mahogany orange with a candyish aroma. Toasted butterscotch akin to the top of crème brulee (burnt sugar). Maintains the candy aspect of the nose. A bit simple. Passable, but better 10s out there.

86 Points

Quinta das Carvalhas 20 Year - Mahogany orange color. Sherry nose. Seems thin-piquant finish with blood orange flavors, almond paste and a dollop of Cointreau. Tastes better than it smells.

88 Points

Quinta das Carvalhas 30 Year - Mahogany orange color. Initially a muted nose, after 15 minutes it opened up wth toasted hazelnuts, walnuts overlaying lemon, oranges and a touch of kirsh (cherry). Lovely easy finish. Balanced. Complex, easy, and fun…what more could you ask?

91 Points

Quinta das Carvalhas 40 Year - Mahogany orange color. Understated earthy nose with a hint of a poor sherry. Super piquant finishing with overly sweet pralines, black sun tea and a touch of oak. After the 30 I do not understand where this is heading; seems like part of the blend wasn't added. OK, but for a 40 TWAIOA expect so much more.

87 Points