1900 Real Companhia Velha Very Old Tawny Port

The NV Very Old Tawny Port Cask 1900 is a field blend from old vines that comes with a bar-top cork and 152 grams of residual sugar, plus 21.5% alcohol. The price is for a half bottle. This is sort of a Colheita, a single-harvest Tawny, but since it was never registered, it cannot be listed as a Colheita. Very mature, this is still rather fresh for its age. It shows off bite on the finish, spice and plenty of molasses. Its texture is the result of concentration, making it seem rich, if in an understated way, as it sits on the tongue. Vibrant and lively, this has generally held well. On the nose, it is the oldest of the trio this issue, to be sure, but it still holds its own and seems decently balanced in most respects. There's a touch of alcohol obvious, especially on the nose, but it seems better handled than in its siblings. That aspect does get worse on the nose as this warms, though. It is still vivacious in a way many Ports this old are not. This is my favorite of the trio, not quite as rich as the 1927, but a better experience overall with a balanced demeanor. Its intriguing complexity is admirable too. It's not young, and there's plenty of seared treacle, but it shows relatively young for its age. Then, there's a big finish.

RS 152 g/l, TA 6.74 g/l, pH 3.35. Yellow/greenish tawny. Smells of Christmas cake. Very lifted and refreshing. Smooth as silk on the palate with some treacle notes and massive persistence. Hints of milk chocolate Really satisfying! I look forward very much to continuing to tackle this little bottle. Lots going on and it seems as fresh as a daisy. More complex than the 1927. (Never thought I’d write that…)