1977 Dow

[Alex Bridgeman]

Dow 1977 magnum. Opened at 00.00, decanted at 11.30 and tasted 19.45-20.00.

A mature rose red colour but surprisingly lightly pigmented at around 40% opacity. Astonishing on the nose! So expressive with complex layers of fruit and spices. The poise of the palate is wonderful; rich and spiced dried fruit in a warm menthol heat. Red liquorice on the long, long, delicious finish. Just an absolutely fabulous bottle of mature Port. 94/100. (Sample A, through steel coffee mesh filter.)

Sample B expressed itself differently than A, less on the nose and a little harshness on the palate but bigger and richer than A. I had them on a par. (Unbleached coffee filter paper.)

Sample C was slightly preferred (freehand decant).

I found sample D to be the best of the four, but the differences were much less pronounced than in the Gould Campbell. (D was decanted through unbleached but washed muslin.) 94/100. Tasted at the Decanting Experiment on 28-Feb-23. Decanted 8 hours.