For The Love Of Port

I recall a few hype e-mails from retailers about 2007 and 2009, but the things I heard from the industry were not to the level I've heard for 2011. In particular I recall some interviews with Dirk Niepoort describing things as unique or elegant or some such, but not classically outstanding.

based on the story being sold

I don't get sold stories, I make my own mind up; and I'm not afraid to be unpopular when I refuse to buy the official line.

2009 was a superb vintage for many producers, but not all were blessed; and some let the two year gap since the previous declaration deter them from declaring when they had wines that more than made the grade.

2011 is a sound and solid vintage that seems to have come right for almost everyone. It has the makings of being a landmark vintage.

- Trust me!

Being between 61 and 70 I concur with the original concerns but suggest 375 ml sizes as a compromise. I have successfully aged many of this size and find they so age faster then the 750 ml size. I like the well aged versions but will probably open more youngish ones as I go forward.

Andy Velebil wrote:Buy and enjoy them young if you have to. I've bought a decent amount as at 40 years old in 20-30 years I'll still be drinking Port (I hope) and would like some nice well stored bottles to pick from. And a 20-30 year old VP will fit that bill perfectly. And knowing me, I'll be doing "sample checks" on them along the way

+ 1 (although at this point in the year, still being 39)

I've ordered some 2011's and (after confirmation from two other UK-based Portlovers though whom I hope to order some 2011's) will be buying 51 bottles (incl 3 Mags) which, for me, is a large numbers of a single vintage (only vintages I've bought more of, were 2005 and 2007, being the birthyears of my 2 sons).