1985 Dow

Tasting notes for individual Ports, with an index sorted by vintage and alphabetically.
Forum rules
Tasting notes for individual Ports, with an index sorted by vintage and alphabetically.
Post Reply
User avatar
Alex Bridgeman
Graham’s 1948
Posts: 14879
Joined: 13:41 Mon 25 Jun 2007
Location: Berkshire, UK

1985 Dow

Post by Alex Bridgeman »

Bought from Victoria Wine, acquired by me in 2005. Burnished red, 50% opaque - very nice appearance. Distinct VA on the nose, enough to be offputting but can still make out some fruit. The VA is apparent on the palate, but there is some distinct red cherry fruit and considerable sweetness. The ghost of the tannins remain to provide some support; overall this has nice balance. The VA also mars the aftertaste and adds a sharpness to the start of the finish, but the warm brandy glow soon replaces the sharpness. If this hadn't had the VA problem it would have been a delightful port. As it is, it is still quite enjoyable. 83/100. Drunk 01-Jun-14. Tasting note taken after 24 hour decant, but not substantially different after a 1 hour decant.
Top Ports in 2023: Taylor 1896 Colheita, b. 2021. A perfect Port.

2024: Niepoort 1900 Colheita, b.1971. A near perfect Port.
Post Reply