Bottled in 2000, 375 mL bottle
I have been trying a few 10 yr old tawny ports lately, trying to discover one that may become my mainstay. I have previously thought of the Taylor 10 yr as my main go-to 10 yr, but have recently had my eyes opened by the discovery of the Noval 10 yr. I also understand that the Niepoort offering is very good (just scarce in my 'hood)
Anyway, opened this bottle to a nose of VA. Not a promising start, but proceeded because it has been a stressful day at work and I need just a little something to take the edge off and mellow out after having my butt handed to me earlier. The 10 km (6.25 miles for my American friends) run I did at noon just didn't cut it for the stress relief.
Further aromas of brown sugar and raisins followed this. The port is very smooth and goes down well with flavours of earthy, nutty goodness. Not too sweet, in fact this 10 YOT seemed more on the dry side, but very balanced. A bit of a sharp after-taste, where the spirit made its presence known, but it was well-hidden for the most part.
The small bottle that I had disappeared quite rapidly and I find myself staring at the last ounce or so in the bottle, wishing there was more. It is definitely one I will revist again.
Todd