Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 1983 Vintage Port is up for a status check. It is in a pretty good place now. It's been as hard as nails over the years. Not anymore. With softened tannins and a medley of old Port flavors on the finish, this is both sensual and delicious, with velvety texture and an irresistible finish. It doesn't have that hard edge any more, but it does wake up and become more intense with some air. At least from this bottle, it comes together rather promptly and drinks well. It's lacking just a bit of firmness, but its complex flavors and general demeanor make it rather sexy. The lingering finish seals the deal. It can keep going for quite some time--it is Port and they tend not to drop off the table if well stored--but this is a nice time to dive in. (MS)

(12/2015)

Jancis Robinson

Foxy red with some evolution. Putty and round and sweet on the nose. Beguiling and fresh but a little spindly. Definite dry finish but no excess of tannin. Already quite pretty. (17/20 points)

(08/2005)

Wine Spectator

Taylor is always closed and tight when young and this is no exception. Deep ruby-purple, ripe raisin and violet aromas, full-bodied, with sweet raisin and grape flavors, a lovely balance of full tannins and an explosion of fruit on the finish. (JS, web only, 1989)