1963 Taylor's

The 1963 Vintage Port from Taylor's remains a fabulous "Everest" of a fortified wine. It is still limpid in hue and has a compelling bouquet with ebullient black and blue fruit, singed leather, clove and tobacco, still retaining its floral elements. The palate is beautifully balanced with layers of fruit undiminished by the passing six decades. This bottle felt slightly lusher than previous examples, with touches of cassis that cloak the slightly viscous finish. Just fabulous. (NM)

Some debate about the quality of the two bottles that were opened and which was more representative. This is the first bottle. Brick-red. Truffle and old leather, with some spirit and volatile notes. Looks old. Spicy and chocolatey, but not a huge amount else. (TJ)

A rare treat to sip a truly mature vintage port. The spirit was just starting to make its presence felt. This is fully mature and possibly, in the case of this bottle, even starting its gentle decline. Extremely sweet and spicy, this reminded me of those biscuits they call gypsy creams. Caressing, round texture. (JR)