1981 Quinta da Eira Velha Crusted Port

[Andy Velebil]

Bottled in 1981 so I assume it's a blend from the late 1970's. "Shipped and bottled by Cockburn Smithes and Co. LTD. 25 St. James Square London SW1." No Selo so I assume this was actually bottled in London. Imported by Grape Expectations, Emeryville, CA. for Corti Brothers in Sacramento, CA. (a respected food store with a legendary wine section).

The color is very pale. Very sweet, simple, and fully mature. Most likely past it's best. The sweetness of this really stood out, luckily there was just enough acidity to keep it from being too cloying. Some light spice and cinnamon are the predominate flavors. The finish is moderately long but simple as well. I've never seen a bottle of this before, but on the off chance someone has one I'd recommend drinking very soon. As in this year. The academic side of tasting this rare Crusted out weighted the actual Port.
85 Points

[Andy Velebil]

An interesting note from the back label..."This single Quinta vineyard, in the upper Corgo region of the Douro River, was first mentioned in documents dated 1582."