TN: 1985 Kopke Vintage Port

[Al B.]

Decant: 34 hours - Decanted very cleanly off a fair amount of sediment. The colour of redwood, red centre but distinct browning at the rim. Nose is dusty but also carries a lovely mix of spices and sandalwood. In the mouth the port is sweet, but not overly sweet. There is plenty of redcurrant fruit in the initial impact and some lovely development of dusty and liquorice in the mid-palate. The aftertaste starts with a dominance of alcohol and a sharp burn but this disappears to be replaced by a long chocolate residue. This is a pleasant enough port, enjoyable without being anything exceptional. I would put this slightly above average but unlikely to improve significantly over the next 10 years. On this showing, I will rate it as 6/6 or 89/100. When revisited after 34 hours in the decanter this wine was much improved, meriting a 7/7 score and representing good value for money when purchased at £25 per bottle. 92 points