This ripe Port boasts stewed plums and dense tannins, making it opulent, rich and set for long-term aging. Spice and a hint of cardamom give further complexity. Of course, this fine wine will age. Wait to drink until 2029.

The 2018 Vintage Porto is mostly a 50/40 blend of Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional with Tinto Cão and Sousão filling out the rest of the blend. It comes in with 106 grams of residual sugar. When last seen, this seemed pretty fine, but it was not yet bottled and there were some questions to answer. Let's check in. With some bottle time, this has fleshed out and shows off its concentration to balance superb structure. The structure may be the best feature. That is part of the identity of most great Ports, and this easily meets any such challenge. There is a serious backbone supporting the fruit and a big finish with appropriate grip and length. A day or two after it was opened, it was more vigorous and powerful than ever.

The 2018 Vintage Port from Sandeman, which was sent as a cask sample, has 106g/L residual sugar. It has a powerful and heady bouquet that does not quite possess the delineation of some other 2018s that I have encountered. The aromatics are just a tad too hedonistic. The palate is very sweet and candied on the entry with luscious liquorice infused black fruit, espresso, curry leaf and a touch of Xmas cake. It is a thoroughly enjoyable Vintage Port, though the warmth of the growing season seems to just rub out a little of Sandeman's style.