1980 Graham

[jdaw1]

1980 Graham (δ delta)
On Wednesday 2^nd April 2014 six of us gathered in The Bung Hole to taste a six-pack of Graham 1980 (the previous tasting of this shape having tested Taylor 1985).

Links:

• Review of the event as a whole;
• 1980 Graham:
  • G80 (α alpha);
  • G80 (β beta);
  • G80 (γ gamma);
  • G80 (δ delta);
  • G80 (ε epsilon);
  • G80 (ζ zeta);
• 1977 Graham (CPR);
• 1977 Graham (MPM);
• 1965 Graham Malvedos (DRT);
• Placemats (and parameters by which made);
• Planning and arrangements.

[flash_uk]

G80. Decanted 10 hrs. Colour as for α alpha (70% opacity, brick red). For me, identical to β beta. Which was: Bit more in the nose than alpha, more fruit. Nice entry and heat builds towards a nice tingle at the end. Fruit but less caramel this time. Nice structure, certainly feels present in the mouth, and good balance.

[jdaw1]

G80, δ, decanted 9½am. All of them were dark-dark-red, 70% opaque. Nose had faint plum, and a hint of dried beef. Early palate rich, with sweet fruit, and very soft. Mid-palate gentle heat, and mandarin acidity. Softer than α, β, and ε.

[Alex Bridgeman]

All six bottles of Graham 1980 from this late release case were of a consistent colour. Brick red throughout and around 70% opaque.

Bottle delta: Most attractive on the nose of the four bottles so far. Lots of brown sugar, caramel and brown sugar and even that touch of mint again. Lovely thick texture on the palate that seems to be a character of this port. Delicious flavours, some gentle floral tones but lots of red fruit that brings fresh and lively flavours. Vibrant tannins give a wonderful counterpoint to the acidity of the port. This is big on the palate and delivers a big finish. Overall a very fine port that has plenty of life ahread of it. 89/100. Decanted 10 hours