Wine

Wine: Graham's Malvedos Vintage Port Grape: Various Region: Douro, Portugal Vintage: 1984 With the cooler weather coming, the thoughts of many wine lovers are turning to vintage port.

Traditionally a favourite drink of the British, vintage port has now been 'discovered' by the Americans and consequently prices are rising.

Vintage port represents just a tiny fraction of total port production. Vintage port is 'declared' only in outstanding years.

Normally, vintage port is a blend of grapes from several vineyards. For some non-declared years single quinta ports may be offered and at a considerably lower price than a declared vintage port. Quintas are the vineyard estates where the port grapes are grown.

The house of Graham was founded in 1920. Graham's ports are regarded as among the very finest. The style is quite sumptuous with immense concentration and richness.

Graham's Malvedos from the non-declared year of 1984 is a lovely wine with lots of rich, ripe, fruit flavours.

The tannins are beginning to fade now, giving a smooth mellowness to the wine. Try it after dinner.

Where to Buy: Direct from the importer Fine Vintage (Tel: 2896-6108) at a retail price of approximately $260. The 1978 Malvedos is also available in half-bottles at about $140.