Cockburn's Port Vintage Port 2015

Cockburn's Vintage Port 2015: A Bicentennial Masterpiece

A Port fit for a celebration, the Cockburn's Vintage Port 2015 marks not only an exceptional year in the Douro Valley but also the 200th anniversary of this prestigious Port House. This detailed tasting note explores the wine's character, its ageing potential, and the perfect food pairings to elevate your next special occasion.

A Legacy of Quality

Owned by the Symington family since 2006, Cockburn's Ports have a long and illustrious history. Renowned for their elegance and finesse, Cockburn's Vintage Ports were once some of the most sought-after in the world. The 2015 declaration marks only the second vintage Port produced by the Symingtons, and it builds upon this legacy with exceptional quality and ageing potential.

Tasting the 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port

The 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port boasts an inky black colour with deep purple hues at the rim. The nose is initially closed but opens beautifully with time, revealing a captivating bouquet of ripe black plums, blackberries, and violets. Hints of cassis, cedarwood, and a touch of spice add complexity, hinting at the wine's maturation potential.

On the palate, the 2015 is full-bodied and powerful, with a captivating concentration of dark fruit flavours. The tannins are firm yet beautifully balanced, offering a structured framework that promises excellent ageing. A wave of blackberry, cassis, and liquorice washes over the tongue, complemented by subtle notes of chocolate, mocha, and dried herbs. The finish is long and lingering, leaving behind impressions of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of minerality.

James Suckling awarded the 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port 94 points, praising its richness, concentration, and ageing potential. This is a Vintage Port brimming with youthful vibrancy, yet it possesses the structure and depth to evolve beautifully in the cellar for decades to come.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Due to its richness and concentration, the 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port pairs exceptionally well with a variety of decadent desserts. Here are some perfect food matches to elevate your after-dinner experience:

• Rich Chocolate Desserts: The dark fruit character of the Port complements the richness of chocolate desserts beautifully. Pair it with a decadent chocolate torte, a flourless chocolate cake, or a plate of dark chocolate truffles.
• Blue Cheese: The sweet fruit notes of the Port cut through the sharp creaminess of blue cheese, creating a delightful contrast of flavours. Try it with a selection of strong blue cheeses like Stilton or Roquefort.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: The natural sweetness of dried fruits like figs, dates, and apricots pairs wonderfully with the Port's fruit concentration. Add in a selection of nuts like almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts for a textural contrast.
• Red Wine Poached Pears: Poaching pears in red wine creates a luxurious dessert that is perfectly suited to the 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port. The poaching liquid's fruit notes will complement the Port, while the pears offer a refreshing contrast in texture.

Beyond the Dessert Course

While Vintage Port is traditionally enjoyed as a dessert wine, the 2015 Cockburn's can also be enjoyed alongside certain savoury dishes. Its richness and structure make it a good match for:

• Mature Cheddar Cheese: A well-aged cheddar cheese with sharp crystals offers a textural and flavourful counterpoint to the Port's sweetness.
• Seared Foie Gras: The luxurious taste of foie gras is balanced by the acidity and fruitiness of the Port.

Decanting and Serving

Due to the potential presence of sediment, it is recommended to decant the 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port before serving. Decanting allows the sediment to settle at the bottom of the carafe while aerating the wine, allowing its flavours and aromas to unfurl fully.

Serve the Port slightly chilled, ideally between 16-18°C. This temperature helps to enhance the wine's fruit character and acidity.

Investing in a Legacy

The 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port is a remarkable wine that represents the pinnacle of Port-making expertise. With its exceptional quality and ageing potential, this Vintage Port is an investment piece for any wine enthusiast's cellar. Whether you choose to enjoy it now in its youthful vibrancy or lay it down to mature for years to come, the 2015 Cockburn's Vintage Port is sure to become a treasured part of your wine collection.