For The Love Of Port

Part of a Dows LBV vertical of 2001, 2004 & 2005—each port was double decanted 24 hours in advance (the 2005 was unfiltered, the 2001 & 2004 were filtered—I decanted all just to keep the aeration consistent for the tasting). All had T-Corks. Spartan Notes—too much of a party going on and a lot of newbies.

Very rough; the alcohol is not integrated and compared to the other two Dows this was clearly the least favorite. Typical Dow LBV fruit--blackberry and chassis--but not as pleasing as the fruit in the 2004 version. I was a bit disappointed.

As a group, the 2001 was the winner, 2004 2nd and 2005 3rd; a few thought the 2004 was the best. All called the 2005 the least favorite.

Points 89

I had another bottle of this at the end of last week. We see it very differently, but I respect your note and the impressions of the group. I very much enjoy the 2005, although it is spirity when first opened.

I had some of this today with a nicely grilled flank steak and it was excellent. I didn't find the roughness or alcohol that you mentioned in your note

I have to say that it didn't seem very Dow-like to me. I usually find Dow to be a bit drier and a bit tarter than other Ports, which doesn't usually agree with my palate. In this case I found dark and juicy berries like what you mentioned and really enjoyed it.

I usually love the Dows LBVs and thought I should retry this sometime..but both of your impressions it clinches it.

Hi John,

If you email me, I'll send you the current newsletter so you can see the LBV article in which my tasting note on the 2005 is included, of the two dozen old and young bottlings. Please use: Portolover@aol.com and remind me of this post.