1985 Dow

[DRT]

One of six in a 1985 Horizontal enjoyed by Simon Lisle, Conky and myself at this offline in Craster, Northumberland on 19 Jan 2008.

Derek
Dark, bright and almost opaque. Closed nose. Big, thick and chewy - typical Dow's dryness that gets more intense as the tannins kick in.

After 2 days: a hint of alcohol on the nose. Big, black and fruity and still lots of tannin. Finish is long and mouthwatering but a little hot.

Simon
Very deep and floral. I like this.

Conky
Nil return.

[Conky]

A great Port. Unlike the Fonseca, you could taste slight flaws. A hint of Mouth dry Tannins. A slight brutality to the Port, a touch to much of heat.

But lovely. More please.

[DRT]

Alan,

I'm not sure how much experience you have of Dow's but dryness is one of its main characteristics, but I do agree that the tannin on this is still a little to aggressive and needs more time in the bottle.

Derek

[Conky]

Clearly not enough. I've only had the D85 twice, and probably only a dozen Dows in total (Then again, you know how god my memory is). I've been awoken to it though. Very good.

[DRT]

You've also had the 80 at The Crusting Pipe which is a spectacular wine. Maybe we should have one tomorrow if the 66's run out?