For The Love Of Port

Hi,
I am a new arrival to this Forum possessing a very modest collection of VP. In these faraway isles the range of ports stocked by local merchants is mostly limited to the well known brands and Houses. But its not about port that I write but a bottle of Madeira which I have had for close to 20 years. In a few words I would like to know what an approximate date of bottling would be for this wine. There is obviously no indication on the label or capsule. And, I am loathe to (do what was it Michael Broadbent? did)- remove the capsule and with a strong torchlight see if the cork provides a clue.
Is there anyone who can shine a(nother) light on this for me. Many thanks...
Burgie
Christchurch
New Zealand

Pictures of capsule as well as from the bottom of the bottle (punt) would help.

I would guess the bottle (filling) originates from the 40ies or 50ies, see also here:

Cheers

Thanks for the comment, I've attached photos of the capsule and punt,

Your pictures make me even more confident...50ies.

Regarding quality: My guess is a reserve, like 15 YO or the like.

Don't expect great stuff, but it could be decent.

Lately I opened this Harvey's Reserve, and it was GREAT and SINGING...

The reference to 'delicate old...' would most likely refer to either Sercial or Verdelho would I be right in thinking?

as per definition and regulation:

Extra Old: blended wine, minimum age of youngest component 15 years old, if variety is mentioned, then minimum 85% of the content is required

Special/Old Reserve: blended wine, minimum age of youngest component 10 years old, if variety is mentioned, then minimum 85% of the content is required

Reserve: blended wine, minimum age of youngest component 5 years old, if variety is mentioned, then minimum 85% of the content is required

Finest, Choice, Selected: only in connection with "Madeira" plus description (ie dry, sweet, and/or trade name), minimum age 3 year; mostly Tinta Negra Mole but may also be made of other authorised varieties

W Burgie wrote: ↑Fri Feb 12, 2021 11:12 pm The reference to 'delicate old...' would most likely refer to either Sercial or Verdelho would I be right in thinking?

I wouldn't bet a dime on S or V...my thinking would be a blend...but no guesses or guarantees on the composition are possible (ok, guesses are possible, but unfortunately senseless)

Thanks and I appreciate the caution about assuming or guesssing