TN: 1994 Dow Vintage Port–I opened this late Tuesday night with the intention of having a nightcap, but the night caught up to me and no additional cap was necessary. Somehow I double-decanted this to clean out the sediment without much loss. Wednesday morning it was singing–Deep ruby hue, fresh grapey fruit with lots of bubbly liveliness and a touch of heat on the finish. Lots of tar/chocolate/licorice notes.
Last night it took on a darker tone and lots more notes of bitter chocolate and ripe prune notes came out. Today much of the same but with a slight hint of oxidation on the nose and slightly muted fruit on the palate. I will nurse this through the night and perhaps leave a bit for tomorrow.
Astonishingly youthful at fifteen. Hold for 10-15 years more at a minimum if you like them tasting young. It’s term will probably exceed my lifespan.
'94s were highly praised when they came out. I didn’t buy any as it always seems you can get good port many years later for not a whole lot more money than on release. 15 years old is probably still way too young but a tasting of a few now would be interesting. Thanks for the note.
Paul,
I think you missed the end of the curve on that one. 1994 was the last great, well-priced declared vintage IMO. Cheapest price for the Dow is $72 on W-S, I still have the $36.99 price tag.
The 1997’s released in the $50-60 range, and you can still find them there today.
A great VP from a awsome year. This one doesn’t get a lot of talk, even in Port circles for some reason. Probably because the Taylor/Fonseca pair that got the WS 100 points. But it is a great VP that has its best years still ahead of it. I’ve loved every bottle I’ve had and would drink this any day of the week. This is one of those that every Port lover should have in their cellar.