Nacional ’87 didn’t get a single vote. It was an off bottle. But I didn’t have another in London, so opened the Maldevos ’87, which also didn’t get a single vote.
It was a splendid evening on Monday night, thanks to everyone who attended and brought some super bottles. I was pleased that my contribution caused the general response I was hoping for of "Are Butler Nephew ports all like this one?" The three Fonseca ports were all on splendid form and the Dow 1997 just reinforced my view that the 1997s are an early maturing vintage and are drinking nicely now (although no need to be in a hurry).
Daniel is clearly in a grumpy mood this morning, presumably because he couldn't make it on Monday, but should console himself with the thought that he has a small consortium member's share of some Fonseca 1970 which cost not much more than a case of Offley 1972.
We must do this again sometime soon.
Top Ports in 2024: Niepoort 1900 Colheita, b.1971. A near perfect Port.
2025: Quevedo 1972 Colheita, b.2024. Just as good as Niepoort 1900!
Many thanks to everyone for a fine evening - great to see some new faces and meet Greg and Ken. Amazing what a difference a Monday night tasting makes with the B&F closing at 10pm rather than 11pm. I surprised myself by managing to get a tube home, not falling asleep, and not losing anything!
Thanks to Julian for organising a well attended Emergency that involved many fine bottles of port. It was a pleasure to meet Greg and Ken, and to enjoy such wonderful examples of juice from some great vintages. The ports from the 60s were still showing very well, but the reliable Fonseca's from 70, 77 and 85 were also stunning.
I must add a special thanks to Derek for indulging my desire to taste the OBV72. I was surprised at the controversy it inspired, and feel that most comments were a bit harsh, as it was a very harmless port on the night, although I have to admit it was no rival for WOTN! A great evening with great port and great company. thank you all.
