Graham's Crusted Port (Bottled in 2004)

Graham's Crusted Port (Bottled in 2004)

Slightly oxidised ruby colour. The nose was quite full with a predominance of plum jam. On tasting it came across as being like a slightly corked vintage. The body was full and fruit but there were hints of aldehydes giving it a noticeably medicinal edge.

Churchill's Tawny 10 Year Old

Churchill's Tawny 10 Year Old

Deep well oxidised brown colour with a surprisingly light nose. This was quite dry which held back the usual dried fruits and oak flavours. As a result it was not dissimilar to an aged dry white. From this tasting it appears that Churchill's house style is towards the dry end of the spectrum so if you prefer your ports dry it would be worth giving them a try.

Churchill's Ruby Reserve

Churchill's Ruby Reserve

Bright ruby colour with a light but plummy nose. Moderately sweet and fruity but somewhat spoiled by a preponderance of young vegetable elements. Perhaps this has been emphasised by the relatively dry style of this wine.

Churchill's Dry White

Churchill's Dry White

Bright golden colour with a floral nose. Quite dry with only a little fruit coming through. There was a noticeable contribution from the wood though.

Cálem Tawny Reserve

Cálem Tawny Reserve

Deep clear brown colour with rich fruity molasses on the nose. There was a substantial fruity body carrying a complexity of sweet dried fruits and dry slightly burnt oak elements. 

Taylor's LBV 2008 (Bottled in 2013)

Taylor's LBV 2008 (Bottled in 2013)

There was a dark ruby colour with a hint of purple. The nose contained moderately plummy fruit elements with hints of spice. As one would expect of a Taylor's LBV, this was a competent and enjoyable port. The sweetness of the berry flavours was balanced with a slightly peppery spicey component so that neither was overly predominant.

Vista Alegre Vintage 1996

Vista Alegre Vintage 1996

Deep ruby colour with a richly fruity nose. A well balanced port combining a rich depth with a plummy fruitiness. This wasn't the most intense and complex port that I have ever tasted, however it was enjoyable and approachable. It had the qualities of a true vintage port at a very reasonable price.