1945 Croft

The 1945 Croft was one of the standouts when I participated in a memorable century-plus vertical in Porto some 15 years ago. It's lost none of its allure. It shows a heavenly nose with ebullient black fruit, clove and a touch of wood varnish, fresh figs and dates. It's a bouquet that you want to dive into. The palate has a sweet and candied entry, plush and opulent, yet with fabulous balance. There are hints of aniseed on the slightly viscous finish and a lingering pinch of marjoram on the aftertaste. Wonderful. Tasted at the Pomerol 1961 dinner in Hong Kong.