port search

[miner49er]

A friends wife is looking for a special port to give as a christmas gift. any suggestions on what I should recommend. Needs to be available retail.

[Jerry D Mead]

The new 1997 Vau Vintage from Sandeman (a more forward style than Sandeman's regular vintages) might be a good bet because it's not only delicious but can be enjoyed young or cellared for some time.

[This message has been edited by Wine Curmudgeon (edited 10-26-99).]

[Thomas]

If you can still get your hands on 1994 ports look for Niepoort ot Ferreira. Outstanding stuff for the port lover.

[OportoRAH]

I would suggest, a Dow 1983 which is reasonably priced and just about ready to drink. There are also many great values still available from the overlooked 1991 vintage that is forgotten about as it fell between the 1985 and 1992, and then 1994. The 1991s are all but forgotten about and they are really nice wines.

[Tabby]

I recently tasted a 1991 Graham's LBV...it was stunning, powerful stuff. Highly recommended if you can find it.

[Randy Caparoso]

These are all good suggestions, but it will still depend on what what you think is appropriate. Vintage Port less than 10 years old, for instance, tend to be hard as nails; and so you'll want to avoid them if you want them to enjoy your selection within the next 5 years.

Older Vintage Ports (pre mid '80s) need special handling (must never be shaken up, since their sediment tends to get crusty, and a little messy); and of course, will cost a bundle (well over $100).

Commercially available Late Bottled Vintage Ports are softer, ready for immediate enjoyment, and just moderately priced (less than $20 or $25).

Personally, for gift giving, I think the ideal special Ports are the 10 Year, 15 Year, or 20 Year Old Tawny Ports. These do not have to be "laid down," are very ready to drink (redolent with lush, autumn spiced flavors), and do not have to be handled with extreme care (since sediment is minimal). The older ones, of course, climb into the $30 to $60 range. Top houses for this style include Ferreirra, Graham, and Taylor.

Good luck!