This is very much in the mold of the 1992—maybe slightly less rich but just by a whisker. It's dense without being heavy, with a beautifully spice-filled and long finish. Flavors of chocolate, mint and plum pudding linger elegantly for a few seconds longer than the '92. Hold. (JC)

When tasting young vintage ports, Taylor is always the most backward. Yet potentially, it has the capability to be the most majestic. This classically made, opaque purple-colored wine is crammed with black fruits (blueberries and cassis). It reveals high tannin and a reserved style, but it is enormously constituted with massive body, a formidable mid-palate, and exceptional length. It is a young, rich, powerful Taylor that will require 10-15 years of aging. Compared to the more flashy, forward style of the 1992, the 1994 has more in common with such vintages as 1977 and 1970. (RP)

A landmark vintage: the 1994s are just coming round to drink and promise a long life ahead (look out for ‘Expert’s Choice’ next month). Restrained aromas with ripe, plummy fruit just emerging. Full and sweet on the palate: well-defined plum and berry fruit backed by solid, ripe tannins with dark chocolate depth and concentration extending through the finish. (RM)