Very top shoulder fill, collar label only, rewaxed over remnants of original wax. My doubts about the authenticity of this bottle were dispelled after breaking the bottle to retrieve the cork, which was very sound but properly branded and plainly of appropriate age. Initially a bit rough, this showed best after 48 hours in decanter. Amazingly opaque, deep color, root beer shading to faintly greenish yellow at the rim. Alluring nose of mincemeat, oaky tawny notes, sweet brown butter, and faint raspberry. On the palate, the spirit was nicely warming but not excessive, with just slight bitterness and a bit of sour VA into the finish, which grew smoother and lingered almost endlessly. A very fine old Vintage Port, showing a mostly tawny profile but with excellent depth and complexity. I was glad Jose was here to share this. The VA note brings down my score, but I would gladly drink this any time. The last glass was consumed with a rich cigar, probably the best cigar pairing I've ever experienced.
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9/15/2019 - petitblanc wrote: 93 Points
Very top shoulder fill, collar label only, rewaxed over remnants of original wax. My doubts about the authenticity of this bottle were dispelled after breaking the bottle to retrieve the cork, which was very sound but properly branded and plainly of appropriate age. Initially a bit rough, this showed best after 48 hours in decanter. Amazingly opaque, deep color, root beer shading to faintly greenish yellow at the rim. Alluring nose of mincemeat, oaky tawny notes, sweet brown butter, and faint raspberry. On the palate, the spirit was nicely warming but not excessive, with just slight bitterness and a bit of sour VA into the finish, which grew smoother and lingered almost endlessly. A very fine old Vintage Port, showing a mostly tawny profile but with excellent depth and complexity. I was glad Jose was here to share this. The VA note brings down my score, but I would gladly drink this any time. The last glass was consumed with a rich cigar, probably the best cigar pairing I've ever experienced.
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