The 2011 Sandeman Vintage Porto has a very precise nose that is imbued with far more clarity than previous vintages: pure black cherries, minerals, creme de cassis and violets, like a super-charged Margaux. The palate is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, the black cherries intermingling with marmalade, fig and raisin. It is seductive toward the finish, confirming its impressive showing out-of-barrel last year. This is without doubt the finest Sandeman of the modern age. Drink 2018-2040.

The Sandeman was tasted from a finished pre-bottling sample, but already it is shaping up to be one of the finest releases from the “man in black.” It is a blend of 40% Touriga Nacional, 40% Touriga Franca, 10% Tinta Roriz, 5% Sousao and 5% Tinta Cao sourced mainly from Quinta do Vau and Quinta do Seixo. It has a very pure bouquet, the Touriga Nacional the most expressive, with creme de cassis, kirsch, blueberry jam and marmalade that is well-defined and very sensual. The palate is medium-bodied with very good structure – real backbone here and very precise tannins. There is great focus and poise, with plenty of red berry fruit intermingling with white pepper and rosemary towards the long finish. This is very satisfying. Tasted May 2013.