1985 Sandeman

Elegant and balanced, but a little short on concentration. Medium ruby-purple, with a spicy plum nose, medium-bodied, with clean fruit flavors, medium tannins and finish. – James Suckling , Wine Spectator 1989

Sandeman is one of the biggest and most conspicuous of the port houses, with extensive interests in the sherry business as well. They advertise significantly and their products are well-represented in virtually every American marketplace. The quality is quite good given the quantity of wine produced, but rarely does a Sandeman tawny or vintage port hit the true heights that a Dow, Fonseca, Taylor, or Graham will. The 1985 has less of a deep-ruby/purple color, but it does offer a spice-box, fruitcake sort of aroma, mildly sweet, medium- to full-bodied flavors, and a ripe, tasty finish. Not a heavyweight, this wine represents a lighter style of vintage port. Jan 1989, www.robertparker.com