Gould Campbell 1983

[John Sel]

On opening to 2 hours: bright dark red colour, slight paleness at the rim where there is the merest hint of purple. At this stage, not specially complex on the nose. A gentle persistent fragrance can be teased out showing some dark spice with a hint of incense. On the palate, the wine is exceptionally composed with the spirit and fruit in perfect harmony. The weight is reminiscent of a fine claret, but with added sweetness. There is a beautiful quality of fruit supported by good acidity and a gentle tannic finish. Fine wine. Day 2: Becoming somewhat less recessive on the nose showing a darker, meatier note with a touch more complexity. Holding its form on the palate. This is a wine I drank a lot of ten years or so ago, having bought heavily at £10-£12 per bottle in the late 90s. It was very good then, but I am surprised by just how well it has developed. Has the poise to continue for some time yet, but an excellent choice for current drinking. 93+ Still rocking on Day 3 and, oddly, more aromatic.

[Andy Velebil]

Nice note on a really good bottle, as you already know. And what a killer price back then on this.

[Glenn E.]

A great bottle of Port - one of the "sleepers" from the 1980s.