Croft 2003 Vintage Port
Fortified 20% ABV ABV CroftGreat after-dinner sipper
Picked this up after seeing it on a restaurant menu and wanting to try it at home. Really expressive nose, lots of dark berry stuff going on. It's the kind of port where you pour a small glass and just sit with it for a while. Shared it with my dad over Christmas and he loved it too.
This is what patience tastes like
Been getting into vintage ports lately and the Croft 2003 is a standout. There's a maturity to the fruit that you just don't get with younger bottles — everything feels polished and together. The acidity keeps it fresh which I wasn't expecting at 20% ABV. Absolute cracker.
Birthday treat that delivered
Got this as a birthday present to myself and wow, really glad I did. The dark fruit flavours are so rich and deep — you can tell it's had 20 years to develop. Sipped it slowly over a couple of evenings with some stilton and it was perfect. Worth every penny of the £65.
Good but steep price
Nice port, no question about it. Loads of dark fruit and it's well balanced for its age. But at nearly £65 a bottle I think you can find similar quality for less. I'd buy it again on sale but probably not at full whack.
Properly impressive port
My wine shop guy recommended this when I said I wanted something special for a dinner party. It's got real weight to it but doesn't feel heavy or boozy despite being 20%. The finish just lingers in the best way. Went down very well with the cheese course.
Solid vintage port, not mind-blowing
I'm fairly new to port so take this with a pinch of salt, but I thought this was decent without knocking my socks off. The fruit is nice and it's smooth enough, but for £65 I was maybe expecting to be a bit more blown away? That said the finish is lovely and long. Would probably try a different vintage next time just to compare.
Brought this out for game night
Cracked this open during a board game night with mates and it was a hit. Even my friend who normally sticks to beer was impressed. You get these deep rich fruit flavours and it's surprisingly easy to drink considering the ABV. Clean finish that makes you want another sip. Would definitely buy again for a special occasion.