Event: SAMMAMISH PORT CLUB - APRIL 2024

[Stewart T.]

SAMMAMISH PORT CLUB - APRIL 2024 - Seattle, Washington (4/13/2024)

• 1985 Smith Woodhouse Porto Vintage - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  Amber ruby in color, with a delicate touch of pink on the rim. The nose is beautifully expressive, dominated by fresh red fruit aromas of ripe strawberry, intertwined with a subtle hint of cinnamon. Beneath the fruit, there are layered notes of pomegranate and warm Christmas spices. On the palate, this Port delivers a rich intensity that carries seamlessly through the mid-palate, where fine-grained tannins emerge, adding structure and depth. The finish is long and persistent, with lingering spice and red fruit notes. (91 pts.)
• 1987 Porto Souza Porto Vintage - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  Dark amber-brown in hue. On the nose there are aromas of chocolate, seasoned old wood, and a faint nuttiness. On the entry, there is a noticeable lift of acidity, providing balance and freshness to the otherwise mature profile. The palate is smooth and well-integrated, offering flavors of chocolate, hints of dried fruits, and a touch of warm spices. While it does not exhibit a highly complex profile, it remains a pleasant and enjoyable wine with a notably long and satisfying finish. (91 pts.)
• 1994 Ramos Pinto Porto Vintage Quinta de Ervamoira - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  Deep, almost opaque garnet-purple in color. The nose bursts with dark fruit aromas of ripe blueberry, blackberry, and black cherry, contributing to a rich, brambly character. Subtle hints of violets and graphite add a touch of elegance. The palate is structured and powerful, with firm yet well-integrated tannins providing a solid backbone. The dark fruit continues on the mid-palate, complemented by a fine layer of bittersweet dark chocolate. The finish is long, persistent, and beautifully balanced between fruit intensity and structure. (92 pts.)
• NV Casa de Sta. Eufemia Porto Special Reserve White - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  A striking clear orange-yellow in color. The nose offers delicate aromas of wildflower honey, orange zest, and a touch of vanilla cream, reminiscent of a creamsicle. On the palate, this Port displays bright acidity, keeping it fresh and lively despite its age. A slightly grippy texture emerges mid-palate, with lemon zest as the dominant fruit component. There are also underlying notes of roasted nuts and dried apricots, contributing to its depth. The mouthfeel is intense and coats the palate beautifully, leading into a long, elegant finish. (93 pts.)
• NV Kopke Porto 30 Year Old White - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  Bottled in 2016. A deep amber-orange hue with golden highlights. The nose is wonderfully complex, offering layers of caramel, toasted oak, and dried figs, interwoven with notes of nougat, vanilla, and delicate orange blossom. The palate is luxuriously thick and rich, yet balanced by a velvety texture. Flavors of butterscotch, roasted hazelnuts, and a touch of molasses evolve into a lingering finish. A final note of shredded coconut adds an exotic twist to the finish. (92 pts.)
• 1987 Krohn Porto Colheita - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  Amber-orange in color with a slightly cloudy appearance. The nose is subtle, offering light herbal notes intertwined with dried citrus peel and hints of chamomile. On the palate, it is smooth and well-integrated, displaying flavors of caramelized nuts, dried apricots, and a touch of baking spices. The acidity is well-balanced, providing lift and freshness. The finish is soft and lingering, with a gentle nutty undertone. (91 pts.)

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