2000 Sandeman Vau Vintage Port

[Espen S.]

2010/4/25

Decanted about 24 hours

My first experience with Sandeman. This is a low priced vintage meant to be consumed early, as far as I know.
Massive sweet blackcurrant on the nose, with some caramel and earthy smell. A bit spirity.
Taste is very similar, but with some very aggressive gripping tannins. Really makes my mouth dry. The taste is very pleasant, but the tannins are a bit too much.
I'm probably drinking this way too young. Maybe it needs a lot of cellar time to tame those brutal tannins. If that's the case, I think it will be a very good wine. 93/100

Disclaimer: I'm still developing and calibrating my palate, my scores might not be very acurate... but it's where I'm at right now. How long to store this? You tell me.

[Jim R.]

Espen
Sounds like you could store it as long as you have the fortitude to keep from opening it. The tannins are the key and it sounds like there are plenty. If the sugar/acid/body are long you are home free for at least 15 years. Sounds like a fair review and score.
Jim

[Espen S.]

Day 3: Now the tannins are more pleasant, but it still feels dry. Much more easy drinking today, the alcohol is gone from the nose, but so is some of the freshness. Decent aftertaste. Not that much blackcurrant today, much more like "classic Port."
I can't imagine this going downhill anytime soon. I'll save a few bottles. It costs as much as a good LBV, so that's no problem.

[Roy Hersh]

I like the impressions you suggest between your day 1 and day 3 tastings. Solid insight and a fine VP.