Dow's, 20 Year Old Tawny, Port, Douro Valley, Portugal

Pale to mid-deep tawny/mahogany colour. A rather ‘silent’ nose compared to some in this tasting but obviously well developed. Thick-cut traditional marmalade character, rich and spicy mid-palate yet made in a dryish house style with gentle spicy length. Rich, complex and very satisfying.

Made in a drier style. Blend based on Quinta do Bomfim in Cima Corgo and Senhora da Ribeira in Douro Superior – open, cassis fruit, not especially big, but fine and long.

Very detailed nose, with blueberry leaf, wild strawberry, mahogany and marmalade elegantly weaved. A fine acid line cuts through the richness of salted caramel, toffee and bitter dark chocolate. Intense core of prune, blueberry jam and preserved cherries cloaked in cocoa powder, coffee, clove and star anise. Long, broody finish.