Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port 1977

97 POINTS

Huon Hooke - The Real Review

A superb bottle of this wine, in immaculate condition and drinking at its zenith now. Multi-dimensioned, rich, supple, glorious, lingering very long on the farewell. Well-cellared bottles will see their 50th birthday, no doubt.

96 POINTS

Wine Spectator

Great dark color. Intense aromas of blackberry, stem and earth. Very powerful and youthful nose. Full-bodied and medium-sweet, with lots of milk chocolate, spice and berry character. Layered and balanced. So enjoyable. But just a baby. I remember this 10 years ago. It is really fantastic. Underrated by many, including me. '77/'85/'97 blind Port retrospective. Drink now through 2020.

Jancis Robinson MW

Notably dark crimson. One of the darkest wines in the array. This is a famous vintage for Smith Woodhouse – a wine that has trounced many a supposedly much smarter 1977 when served blind. Rather too shrivelled character on the nose – a slight lack of freshness, or lusciousness. A little rustic, raw and chunky. Very sweet, almost raisiny start and then drying, chewy, though very brisk finish. Score: 17/20

Jancis Robinson MW

Exceptionally concentrated-looking mid crimson with some blue still evident. Big and fruity and alcoholic –California style! A note that is slightly green on the nose. Big and bold and impressive but is all this swagger what vintage port is really about? Tough tannins on the finish. A brute of a wine. Score: 17/20