Light pink optic with a clear rim, without any signs of bricking. The 1834 vintage is regarded as one of the most prolific mid-19th-century vintages, along with 1851. The Port was packaged in a hand-blown green glass bottle. The label states, “Recently removed (96) from the stately home of a Titled English family. The family has owned these Ports since their original release. Over the years the cellar has been fastidiously maintained by leading local wine merchants.” There was potent bottle stink early on—as expected from a Port that hadn’t moved in many decades and is soon to reach its 186th birthday. It blew off within a rather short period in the glass, and an exquisite refined bouquet emerged, with wisps of perfumed carnations and graceful cinnamon spice. Pretty fruit, light in weight and ethereal, with mid-level sweetness and ample acidity to carry this for several hours throughout the afternoon. A long and hedonistic finish prevailed. One of the finest first-half-of-the-19th-century Ports I’ve experienced in recent times; even better than a sublime 1815 Rebello Valente in September 2019. The score may not do justice to a Port with this age, but it is in proper perspective. | 93