???? Unknown (Bottled by DEBL of Sunderland)

[Alex Bridgeman]

Unknown Shipper, Unknown Vintage
Acquired as one of a two bottle lot from Tennants auction on 26 November 2011. The two of the bottles were similar in appearance and this is the first of those two to be opened. This is a five part moulded bottle (base, cylinder, shoulders in two parts, neck) with a moulded code in the flat punt.

Described in the catalogue as "two bottles of port of unknown shipper and vintage but believed to be late 19th century". The wax seal on one bottle reads ""D.E.B.L. Sunderland"". The remnants of the wax seal on the second bottle are identical but incomplete. This bottle was leaking slightly and has been rewaxed (by me). There is no branding on the cork.

By appearance, I would estimate this bottle to be from the early 20th century.

The port was well coloured, a burnished red and about 30% opaque. On the nose it was dry and initially smelly but developed into a more attractive smell with an hour or two. Dry on the palate, with coffee, nuts and rosemary. Showing some age but also still very presentable. Pleasant palate, very hot and fiery aftertaste and finish. The presence and impact of the port was consistent with a good (if dry style of) port from one of the good vintages in the first decade of the 20th century. 85/100. Drunk 10-Dec-14. Decanted 2 hours.