Funny, port is the one that I think tastes like "cough syprup" (as my dad used to call cough medicine - must be an old term).
I do think that sherry, like many alcoholic beverages, is an acquired taste, but once one's palate becomes more discriminating with age, one finds it a true pleasure. Liqueurs, though, haven't presented any barrier ... my parents always served Cointreau, Drambuie, Grand Marnier when entertaining, and even as kids (or at least teenagers) we were always allowed to taste these.
Terry, please do post if you buy the Chartreuse -- consider it Dark Shadows research!
(I probably won't be online, though, till after Jan. 10)
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!