2025: Smith Woodhouse from the 1990s

[Big Love]

Last night we had a tasting of Smith-Woodhouse from the 1990s: the 1991, 1994 & 1997 VPs and the 1995 SW Madalena (a particular favorite as it is quite affordable and a lovely Port). All bottles decanted about 5 hours before--could have done with a few more hours but decent enough. SW to me is typically a dark, brooding port but full of fruit and vigor when tasted. Love the brand!

Noticed the older it got, the browner the aurora/rim got. But looking at the four glasses they initially looked identical in color until closer examination revealed differences. The 1991 was the most surprising---while the 1994 was the WOTN, the 1991 was close behind. It was the most evolved of the four--i.e. closest to it's peak. 1994 and 1995 would benefit from more aging.

Ports were served blind. Tasters knew were all SW and pre-2000. Scores were consistent - I am JJM and was the most generous is scorer. For WOTN 1994 got 6 votes, 1992 4 votes and one for the 1995.

[Alex Bridgeman]

John - that sounds like a great tasting. I love SW and would have enjoyed most or all of those wines.

But just to confirm, you tasted the SW91, not the SW92?

[Big Love]

SW91.....edited the above.