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We tasted some Broadbent Ports in the presence of Bartholomew Broadbent himself, on Wed 1^st May 2019 at The Boot & Flogger.

Links:

• Review of the event as a whole;
• Broadbent Auction Reserve;
• 1994 Broadbent;
• 1997 Broadbent;
• 2000 Broadbent;
• 2003 Broadbent;
• 2007 Broadbent ;
• 2011 Broadbent ;
• 2015 Broadbent ;
• 2011 Niepoort;
• 1992 Passadouro;
• 1994 Skeffington (Davy’s);
• 1985 Fonseca;
• 1983 Gould Campbell;
• 1982 Smith Woodhouse LBV;
• Placemats;
• Food order;
• Planing and arrangements.

A good balance of fruits on the nose (I thought it was quite “plummy”, overall). More fruits on tasting (now more like berries), along with some spice (pepper?). My favourite aspect, though, was the very sustained and enjoyable finish!

Broadbent Ports are made by Dirk Niepoort, but from blends specially selected for Bartholomew Broadbent. Available in the UK through Top Selections. The Broadbent Reserve Ruby is named in honour of Bartholomew's father and his long connection with Christie's wine auctions.

Bottling year not known. A blend of wines from across a range of vintages, this reserve ruby is intended to be more of a Crusted Port in style. Deep rich red with a wide rim and an opaque centre. Soft on the nose with a little gentle fruit. Soft fruit comes onto the palate with a gentle grip, but the main impression is of a nice and comfortable enveloping fruitiness. A terrific finish and a great length of sharply acidic fruit. Delicious Port. 87/100. Decanted 2 hours.