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A small group gathered at the Bung Hole for a blind tasting, DJ being in town for the evening. We were joined by two guests: AHB being able to join at the last minute, he was accompanied by Mrs B; DJ brought his friend Richard West.

The line-up of bottles was interesting: five were from the same year, three were the same wine and two were decanted from the same bottle.

• Review of the evening
• 2000 Sandeman Vau decanted from double-mag into standard bottle
• 2000 Sandeman Vau from half-bottle
• 2000 Sandeman Vau decanted from double-mag into half-bottle
• 2000 Fonseca
• 2000 Niepoort Secundum
• 1981 Warre LBV
• 1955 Butler Nephew
• 1970 Taylor
• 1980 Taylor
• Placemats
• Planning and arrangements

Decanted at 11 am.
About 80% opaque, dark plum colour.
A dark, brambly nose.
This had a slight soapiness at first, but this seemed to relax through the evening. This was not showing much this evening.

F00, decanted 11am. Dark red, 90% opaque. Lovely balance of acidity and fruit. Maybe a hint light on tannin. Dark cherries; good length.

Opaque centre and a youthful appearance. Sharp nose, dominated by acidity and stewed fruit. Dark chocolate and black cherries on the palate, with gentle charcoal tannins supporting. Chocolatey aftertaste and finish of good length. The finish is really fine, but this comes across as a modest bodied port that will not be a long-lived bottle. Served blind this was guessed to be Vargellas 1991. 86/100.