Sandeman is one of the biggest and most conspicuous of the port houses, with extensive interests in the sherry business as well. They advertise significantly and their products are well-represented in virtually every American marketplace. The quality is quite good given the quantity of wine produced, but rarely does a Sandeman tawny or vintage port hit the true heights that a Dow, Fonseca, Taylor, or Graham will. The 1985 has less of a deep-ruby/purple color, but it does offer a spice-box, fruitcake sort of aroma, mildly sweet, medium- to full-bodied flavors, and a ripe, tasty finish. Not a heavyweight, this wine represents a lighter style of vintage port.