For The Love Of Port

Very light in colour and in body nothing at the start or middle but a raspberry long finish,Didd'nt improve with decanting not a one for the long haul but drinking well no alcohol present at all, not a great port but I never expected it to be 82 points.
I had a Burmester 96 colheita bottled 2004 a few days prior to the La Rosa which was a better port different in style medium bodied dark plummy colour blackberry with a hint of raisins 85 points

Simon,

1996 was not a declared vintage for the vast majority of Port producers. I have enjoyed a couple from this vintage in the past, but it is not normally a vintage that I would seek out. Quinta de la Rose is not normally known for making great Vintage Port, but rather excel at some of their wood aged Ports. In a weak year, it is a lot to ask of them, to make a great VP.

I am pleased that the very young Burmester Colheita showed well. Your note makes it sound very tasty and I was a bit surprised you only gave 85 points. You must be a tough grader. 8)