1970 Royal Oporto

[Alex Bridgeman]

From a dumpy bottle, labelled on one side and stencilled on the other. Sealed with a ""lead"" capsule which had been covered in black wax; stoppered with the shortest cork I have ever seen used for vintage port. Very pale pink on decanting, and with little sediment - not promising much for later in the day.

Deep orange in colour, 20% opaque. On the nose, this is faintly medicinal and with a touch of applemint. Sweet on the palate, gentle dried fig and sultana with a touch of mild acid to give structure. Air releases more floral flavours; refined and delicate. The aftertaste is floral and refined, and the finish dominated by raspberry creme brulee - especially the burnt sugar on the top! Pleasant drinking, but not a bottle of which to own more than one or two. 83/100. Opened 17 October 2010 and drunk after 10 hours decanting.

[Glenn E.]

Your notes are more elegant than mine, but your conclusion is similar. My scores have ranged from 82-85. I have 2 more of these and will probably use them to show friends who are relatively new to Port what an over-the-hill Port is like. It's pleasant, but not something to save (or savor).