NV Graham Crusted 1985

[Alex Bridgeman]

Imported by Matthew Clark & Sons of London EC1. Decanted off a small amount of sediment from a bottle sealed with a cork with an extremely sticky top. A nice brick-red colour, around 60% opaque. When first decanted the nose was unpleasant, full of VA and with hints of wet cardboard. In the mouth this was acidic and unpleasant, even slightly effervescent; really not very nice.

18 hours later this had improved significantly. The nose now smells of gentle pear-drops and the palate has lost the effervescence. Still acidic and lacking in fruit this is thin on the palate but hints at raw redcurrants. Strawberries and redcurrants show on the aftertaste before a peppery finish takes over and lasts for a long time. Fortunately my previous experience was much better than this so I know this is not necessarily representative. 81/100. Opened 08-Jan-16and tasted after decanting for 18 hours.