Extracted from the Virtual Tasting Room. Opened May 2008
As should be expected, the cork came out easily in one piece, and there was only a little sediment.
8+ Hours. Surprisingly large on the nose, but aromatic rather than powerful. Very fruity, with, if it is not too clichéd, lots of plums and a bit of cherry. In the mouth, there is a nice peppery heat (though this does obscure some of the other flavours), followed by more fruit, which eventually produce a little cherry in the finish. The sugar is not particularly obvious and feels very well dissolved.
+24 Hours. Not much change, though it has mellowed somewhat. Now an extremely easy drinker.
I think, overall, this is an entirely pleasant VP, though not quite interesting or exciting enough to warrant drinking again in the next few years.
I tend only score bottles, only give them a rating for whether I should acquire another. This gets a “P” for “possibly”.
1997 Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port
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