1988 Malmsey
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Tasting notes
The most recent Malmsey from Blandy’s is 1,589 bottles of the 1988 vintage released last year. It has an agreeable bouquet with maraschino, marmalade, Seville orange and grilled walnuts on the nose, although it takes a little time in the glass to warm up. The palate has a real prickle of acidity and is lightly spiced with cloves, bay and white pepper. It builds nicely in the mouth toward a slightly smoky finish that exerts good weight and sufficient sweetness to satisfy any Malmsey lover. Importer: Premium Port Wines Inc., San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 554-9920; fax (415) 554-0380
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Only 1,589 bottles of this rarity are being sold. It's not the most luscious Malmsey you will ever taste but it is very pure and complex with considerable evidence of long wood ageing. I would enjoy it with nuts (it's very nutty and tangy itself) or cheese, something along cheddar lines, rather than anything sweet and it would be a fine, intellectual accompaniment. Super fresh. (JR)