Last night we had a tasting of Smith-Woodhouse from the 1990s: the 1991, 1994 & 1997 VPs and the 1995 SW Madalena (a particular favorite as it is quite affordable and a lovely Port). All bottles decanted about 5 hours before--could have done with a few more hours but decent enough. SW to me is typically a dark, brooding port but full of fruit and vigor when tasted. Love the brand!
Noticed the older it got, the browner the aurora/rim got. But looking at the four glasses they initially looked identical in color until closer examination revealed differences. The 1991 was the most surprising---while the 1994 was the WOTN, the 1991 was close behind. It was the most evolved of the four--i.e. closest to it's peak. 1994 and 1995 would benefit from more aging.
Ports were served blind. Tasters knew were all SW and pre-2000. Scores were consistent - I am JJM and was the most generous is scorer. For WOTN 1994 got 6 votes, 1991 4 votes and one for the 1995.
Smith Woodhouse from the 1990s
Moderators: Glenn E., Roy Hersh, Andy Velebil
Smith Woodhouse from the 1990s
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Last edited by John M. on Mon Mar 31, 2025 4:37 am, edited 2 times in total.
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Glenn E.
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Re: Smith Woodhouse from the 1990s
Your narrative says it is 1992, but the score card says it is 1991.
Smith Woodhouse appears to have declared both, so that's no help.
Smith Woodhouse appears to have declared both, so that's no help.
Glenn Elliott