1985 Dow

[djewesbury]

No extensive note taken as this was drunk at dinner with non-Port drinking friends, and I was more concerned to proselytise to them than to record my own impressions. All the usual elements there in most excellent profusion: the nose of bananas immediately on opening, which became more candied with air. The mouth of light, fresh strawberries, very slightly jellied, beginning to mature wonderfully, and very pleasant, light delicate tannins at the end.

Desired outcome achieved:

"I never liked Port before, this is fantastic. Can I have some more?"

Looking forward to another one of these next weekend with DRT + JCT.

Then we opened a W84 LBV, which showed very favourably indeed alongside; less complex, perhaps, but really extremely good juice.

[DRT]

DRT + JT

= "DRT + JCT".

[djewesbury]

DRT + JT

= "DRT + JCT".

Thank you. Corrected.

[djewesbury]

Oh no! Did I open the wrong bottle last night? Now I can't find DRT's D85..!
No matter. I've always wondered what RCV 83 is like. Perfect opportunity to open some.

[DRT]

{not-biting-icon}

[djewesbury]

{not-biting-icon}

Oh good. Glad you're not angry.

[Alex Bridgeman]

Then we opened a W84 LBV, which showed very favourably indeed alongside; less complex, perhaps, but really extremely good juice.

I've sold an awful lot of the mature bottle aged LBVs from Warre and Smith Woodhouse to friends who are recent port converts, but who don't want to spend £40-70 on a bottle of mature VP. Instead they are delighted to pay a little under £20 for a fully mature port that they don't feel guilty to open and enjoy at home after work or to share with friends.

What did your non-Port-loving friends make of the LBV?

[djewesbury]

Enjoyed it very much indeed, and were quite impressed that an LBV could be like this. It really is good isn't it.