1994 Graham’s, Vintage Port (RT93) This bottle left me feeling like it wasn’t quite up to standard. Don’t get me wrong, it was plenty delicious, just not of the stature I expect from such a profound producer in a benchmark vintage like 1994. At age 29 revealing a somewhat deeper than expected hue, with shades of deep ruby garnet dominating, and some thinning at the rim. Classic late fall notes, yet slightly suppressed and compact, as aromas of dried red cherry, spiced plums, figs, dates, orange zest, hints of coffee and pinch of mocha waft from the glass. On the palate it delivers a bit of a muddled and soft fruit texture, soft and not of the focus I was expecting. The bottle was in perfect condition, no leakage and with a perfect cork and double capsule. As we often say, “there are no great wines, only great bottles”. We’ll see how the next bottle shows in a year or two. Drink now-2044+ Tasted October 2023
