How old is too old where vintage port is concerned, folks? Well, in truth, I've yet to find out and I've tried several 50 year olds over the years and the only thing stopping me going older is the sheer cost. Generally, as long as the anniversary you are celebrating is up to 50 years ago, the price, although steep, is worth the gamble, but over five decades and the price goes up exponentially in line with the rarity. In its youth - up to 10 years old - port tends to dominate the palate with the density of its fruit and, of course, the raised alcohol levels as a result of fortification, but as it ages, I've found that these characteristics don't disappear, they just sort of even out, making every mouthful feel like it lasts forever.
The best are incredibly complex, opening out more and more with every second. Personally, I like to print off the news headlines for the year the port was made to help enjoy and appreciate the decades spent lying in wait. One of these days, I’ll brave my wallet and try something about 60 years or older - a man can dream, folks.
Grahams Vintage Port 1977 I tried this one last year and was blown away by the depth and complexity of the flavours with raisins, caramel, bramble and spice. What's more, there still plenty of juice left in the tank and I'd happily try this one again in a decade. Corney & Barrow £90 Dows 2010 Vintage Port A gorgeous introduction to vintage ports with intense fruits, caramel and liquorice dominating the palate.
I enjoyed m.
