Warre's Traditional LBV Port

Warre's Traditional LBV Port: A Detailed Tasting Experience with Food Pairings

Warre's Traditional LBV Port is a highly acclaimed Portuguese fortified wine, bottled after four years of cask ageing and further matured in bottle before release. This extended ageing process creates a complex and rewarding drinking experience, perfect for special occasions or simply a luxurious after-dinner treat.

A Deep Dive into the Glass

• Colour: Expect a deep, ruby red core with hints of garnet on the rim. This rich colour hints at the wine's concentration and maturity.
• Nose: On the nose, Warre's Traditional LBV Port unfolds with a beautiful bouquet of ripe, dark fruits. Think blackberries, plums, and damsons, interwoven with subtle hints of spice like cinnamon and clove. Notes of cocoa and liquorice may also emerge, adding a touch of complexity.
• Palate: The first sip reveals a full-bodied and mouth-coating texture, thanks to the wine's time in oak casks. The rich fruit flavours from the nose are mirrored on the palate, with a burst of black cherry, cassis, and blackberry. These are complemented by a pleasant undercurrent of oak spice and a touch of earthiness. The tannins are firm yet well-integrated, providing a balanced structure that promises further ageing potential. The finish is long and lingering, leaving behind a delightful echo of dark fruit and spice.

Food Pairings to Elevate Your Experience

Warre's Traditional LBV Port's depth of flavour and richness make it a versatile partner for a variety of food pairings. Here are some suggestions to tantalise your taste buds:

• Cheese: This Port is a natural companion for strong cheeses. Stilton, with its sharp and creamy character, creates a wonderful contrast with the wine's sweetness. Mature Cheddar or a robust Roquefort also pair beautifully.
• Chocolate: The rich fruit flavours of the LBV are a perfect match for dark chocolate. Opt for a bar with at least 70% cocoa content to complement the wine's intensity. You can even get creative and drizzle the Port over a chocolate mousse or cake for a decadent dessert experience.
• Fruit Desserts: Warre's LBV Port pairs exceptionally well with fruit-based desserts. Consider a warm plum tart with cinnamon ice cream, a decadent chocolate and blackberry brownie, or a selection of fresh berries with a touch of mascarpone cheese. The wine's sweetness complements the fruit flavours without overpowering them.
• Nut-based Desserts: For those who prefer a nutty flavour profile, Warre's LBV Port pairs well with desserts featuring almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts. Try a slice of almond cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a walnut and fig tart, or a creamy hazelnut panna cotta.
• Blue Moules: For a savoury option, consider blue moules. The salty and briny character of the mussels is beautifully balanced by the wine's sweetness and fruitiness.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Food Pairing Ideas

For a truly unique experience, explore these unexpected yet delightful pairings:

• Matured Steaks: The bold fruit flavours and firm tannins of Warre's LBV can stand up to a well-marbled steak. Opt for a ribeye or a cut with a bit of fat content for the best results.
• Stilton and Pear: This combination takes the classic cheese pairing a step further. The sweetness and slight astringency of the pear create a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and the Port.

Tips for Serving and Enjoyment

• Decanting: While not essential, decanting Warre's Traditional LBV Port for 30 minutes can help soften the tannins and allow the full range of aromas to develop.
• Serving Temperature: For the best experience, serve Warre's LBV Port slightly chilled, around 15-18°C. You can achieve this by placing the bottle in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
• Glassware: Choose a port glass or a small snifter to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.

In Conclusion

Warre's Traditional LBV Port is a remarkable fortified wine that delivers a complex and rewarding drinking experience. Its rich fruit flavours, well-integrated tannins, and smooth texture make it a perfect choice for after-dinner enjoyment or special occasions. With a variety of delicious food pairings to explore, Warre's LBV Port is sure to become a treasured addition to your wine collection.