We well remember buying this bottle. We were trying to get to Quinta do Valado but missed the turning and a good two hours later found ourselves at Caves Santa Marta. We had an interesting time there. It turned out they were in the process of rebranding so they were selling off there old stock at bargain prices. We came away with three bottles of vintage which poor muggins had to lug all the way back to our hotel.
I have never seen such a heavy deposit after decanting a bottle of port before. There was a ruby element to the colour but it was well on the way to developing tawny characteristics. The nose was vaguely fruity but was reminiscent of something much older than just twenty years. Tasting revealed a well integrated and harmonious combination of subtle plummy fruits with a rich spiciness. The body was acceptable if not exceptional. For the price paid this was a good vintage port but was probably nearing the end of its drinking life.
