2003 Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage Port
Posted: Mon Jul 16, 2012 7:40 pm
Opened to share with my parents after BBQ brisket dinner with a selection of cheeses. Mom's favorite Port is Fonseca's bin 27, so she doesn't need a well-aged VP to be impressed. 
2003 Taylor Fladgate LBV
Color: Deep red with significant purple tones. Opaque in the center. Fades through ruby to pink at the rim.
Nose: Dark fruits, somewhat stewed. Black cherry and plum, possibly some dates. Alcohol is present but not really obvious.
Palate: Rich and luscious... lots of those same dark fruits from the nose, especially the black cherry. Very good tannins and acidity, but well balanced with just the right amount of heat. Medium full body. Smooth and very pleasant - goes great with soft/mild cheeses.
Finish: Tannins, some pleasant warmth, and some nice fruits. Good length. Some tart apples at the end as it fades out.
Score: 93 points. These have been very consistent for me and have been improving slowly over time. If it were a VP I'd say it needs at least another 10 years to fully mature, but as an LBV that might happen more quickly.
2003 Taylor Fladgate LBV
Color: Deep red with significant purple tones. Opaque in the center. Fades through ruby to pink at the rim.
Nose: Dark fruits, somewhat stewed. Black cherry and plum, possibly some dates. Alcohol is present but not really obvious.
Palate: Rich and luscious... lots of those same dark fruits from the nose, especially the black cherry. Very good tannins and acidity, but well balanced with just the right amount of heat. Medium full body. Smooth and very pleasant - goes great with soft/mild cheeses.
Finish: Tannins, some pleasant warmth, and some nice fruits. Good length. Some tart apples at the end as it fades out.
Score: 93 points. These have been very consistent for me and have been improving slowly over time. If it were a VP I'd say it needs at least another 10 years to fully mature, but as an LBV that might happen more quickly.