1871 Cossart Gordon & Co. Madeira Bual Solera

[Stewart T.]

This wine has a beautiful, rich, amber-golden color. It is clear with no visible sediment. It has a light viscosity that coats the inside of the glass when I swirl it. On the nose, there are aromas of lime, complex layers of dried fruit (notably golden raisins), roasted nuts, and a hint of caramelized orange peel. As it opens, subtle notes of aged wood and a whiff of tobacco emerge, adding complexity and depth. There is a great balance, almost as if this wine will be tame and reserved. But the acidity and complex flavors ramp up on the mid-palate and provide wonderful notes of stewed fruits, some salted caramel, and dried apricots. There are some nice spice notes on the long, savory finish. This Madeira (being a Solera) has a rounded smoothness to it. 94 points.