1977 Croft

RonnieRoots · Post by **RonnieRoots** » 13:44 Thu 21 Jun 2007

Tasted around Christmas 2004:

Somewhat dark core with still a bit of red in it, gradually moving to orange/brown at the rim. It smells very old: lots of leather, some roasted coffee, some green (herbal) notes. Don't get much fruit on the nose. Again old tones in the taste: leather, tobacco, coffee. Fruit has dried out, some dried figs and dates remain. The finish is too hot and dusty.

LadyR and I bought this a while ago for short term drinking, and that's apparently a good thing. Although I didn't expect a masterpiece, I was disappointed by it. Not the best of bottles perhaps. 80 points.

KillerB · Post by **KillerB** » 13:49 Thu 21 Jun 2007

I think you had a badly kept bottle. The one we had a couple of months ago was lovely. Some similar characteristics but they were in balance. I'll go and find the note and attach it.

KillerB · Post by **KillerB** » 13:52 Thu 21 Jun 2007

Of course this may just have been an exceptionally good bottle:

Croft Vintage Port 1977

Double decanted in the morning.

Another beautiful-looking Croft VP. There is an orange tinge when you pour this which is just so pretty. Lighter than most 1977s it is still a full-bloodied port. Cherry brandy and plums on the nose. In the mouth it is balanced with tannins and acids, drier than expected but very elegant. Still has years left in it but drinking well. Sneaked in some Colston Basset Stilton (Neal's Yard special with animal rennet) which was superb and the Croft went wonderfully. Also had some Montgomery cheddar, which is astonishing stuff and the Croft went well again.