D* Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage 2017

NOTE: As part of our Explorer Series some labels may be slightly stained/damaged, but wines are first quality.

Winemaker Notes
Graham’s 2017 LBV has a lovely honeysuckle fragrance as well as hints of mint, which is often present in Graham’s wines. In the background, there are also some attractive, bright tropical fruit notes. Typically Graham’s on the palate with sumptuous ripe black fruit flavours combining with hints of kirsch. The fine-grained tannins give the wine balance and structure, whilst good acidity underscores the wine’s freshness.

The Graham’s 2017 can be enjoyed anytime and pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate desserts as well as semi-cured and cured cheeses like Cheddar and Manchego.

Critical Acclaim

Wine Enthusiast WE 92
The Port, with its luscious texture and black fruits, is impressive and dense. Black fruits are given richness and spice by the spirit and the raisin flavors. With its light structure, it is ready to drink.

Wine Spectator WS 91
Inviting, with plum cake and steeped raisin and plum notes laced with licorice snap and fruitcake accents. There’s a solid spine for support, but this is approachable now. Try decanting or even giving a touch more time in the cellar.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate RP 90
The 2017 Late Bottled Vintage Port is a field blend bottled in 2022 with a bar-top cork and 113 grams per liter of residual sugar after six years in cask. (There will be no 2016 Graham’s LBV.) Elegant in the mid-palate (unlike its sibling, the Dow’s), this also has good structure, but it is a much better balanced wine. The big fruit of this fine vintage shines through, rendering this rather delicious. This has persistence and focus, plus all that tasty fruit. You can’t go wrong. Best after 2022.