Medium tawny-brown hue gradually fading to a broad rim of pale amber. A wonderfully complete, multidimensional nose with a fine balance rare in a port matured in cask for five decades. The seductive redolence of oak wood does nothing to disturb the wine’s symmetry and poise. Warm mellow notes of black coffee, molasses and marzipan blend with dried fig, sultana and woody notes of cigar box and cedar. Subtle hints of tobacco leaf, faded rose petal and black tea as well as spicy aromas of black pepper and scents of orange flower combine to give the wine an attractive aromatic character.
A wonderful dark purple rim and great depth of colour characterise the wine’s appearance. The aromatic profile is dominated by superb youthful dark fruit. It is powerful on the initial attack, leading into a fresh mid-palate with beautifully seductive flavours of dark fruit. A great combination of power and elegance, ending in a bold, dry, lengthy and slightly green tannic finish. The length and structure of the 2017 vintage promise a long-lived wine with great ageing potential.