Worth noting the new label, capsule and seal. The label states that this was shipped by Quinta and Vineyard Bottlers which suggests that this is an ex-cellars bottle from 1991 or later, after Delaforce became part of the Taylor Fladgate Partnership.
"The first duty of Port is to be red" Ernest H. Cockburn
A pale centre and watery rim. Spearmint dominating the nose. A beautiful entry that turns slightly harsh in the mid-palate before the harsh tones resolve themselves with additional air to give fresh pears and sweet damsons. Gently elegant aftertaste that floats away but is better than you'd expect from the palate. A good, modest port, perfect for everyday drinking. 3/3 or 87/100. Decanted for 3½ hours and drunk on 28/1/08.
Top 2025: Quevedo 1972 Colheita, b.2024. Just as good as Niepoort 1900!
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I have not had many Delaforce before and had no idea what it would be like. AHBs comment about it being an ideal everyday drinker is spot on, although I'm not sure many people have the funds to drink 1966 VP every day
My TN says: "Toothpaste!! [nose] - Bloody good for a 42 year old port from the 2nd or 3rd Division!"
I rated this 10th out of 14. AHB had it at 11th.
A big thanks to Simon Lisle for supplying the bottle and Ghandih for supplying the dosh to pay for its addition to the line-up.
"The first duty of Port is to be red" Ernest H. Cockburn
