1930 Muscadel LBV

In Bordeaux, one dinner finished with a sensational bottle of 1930 Muscadel Bin 14 Late Bottled Vintage from KWV, the government-run wine company in that era. Clear in color with modest bricking on the rim, the 1930 looks iridescent in the glass. The bouquet mesmerizes with seductive scents of raisin, fig jam, kirsch and cough candy. It is beautifully defined and gains intensity with aeration. Based on the aromatics, you would think it was 20 years old or even less. The palate is viscous on the entry, a perfect line of acidity that neatly offsets the richness of this LBV. Velvety-smooth with plushness and purity to spare, the finish offers molasses, Medjool dates and golden raisins. It is probably the best Vintage Port that I have encountered from the Cape. Despite its age, a cursory glance on the internet shows that bottles are available from some merchants. Buy one. You’ll be amazed.