Tasting Notes # 2

Sandeman Vau Vintage 1999

After the sumptious Taylors Vintage, as reviewed in Tasting Notes #1, I have since been eagerly awaiting my next port experience. That moment came last weekend when I was bequeathed this much sought after 10 year old. This vintage port is based on a fine blend of wines from the Quinta do Vau, Sandemans top rated vineyard in the Douro Valley. It is designed to be enjoyed young, but ages well in the bottle. Appearance wise it is thick and dark red. To the nose it is seriously rich, with a healthy mix of blackberries, dark chocolate, vanilla and faint whiffs of smoke. On the palate there is more richness, bittersweet, almost like a good quality dark chocolate, with yet more dark fruit and even hints of stewed rhubarb. The finish is long and lingers in the mouth with leathery notes building up to an encore of dry and oaky notes. This is one of the very best.

Tasting Notes - Taylors Late Bottled Vintage 2001

As my drinking habits mature, I am becoming quite fond of the occasional port. Although I am by no means a connoisseur (yet), I am aware that Taylor's are one of the biggest names in port production. They are, if you like, the 'Ferrari' of the port industry. I enjoyed this 2001 as a Boxing Day aperitif, prior to imbibing in the more serious post dinner business of Jack Daniels. Indeed, I enjoyed it so much that I have since acquired a further bottle for my own casual consumption. It is of a deep red appearance, and slightly opaque. To the nose it is peppery and packed with fruity aromas, including rhubarb and perhaps a hint of elderberry. On the palate there is much more fruit, a hint of 'summer pudding' and dark, rich tannins infused with feint notes of licorice. The finish is bold and lasting, with a sweetness emerging and woody spices on the death. Highly recommended.