De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Barrel Aged Tawny 50cl

De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Barrel Aged Tawny: A Rich and Complex Australian Tawny

The De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Barrel Aged Tawny is a premium Australian fortified wine boasting an impressive two decades of maturation in oak barrels. This 50cl bottle offers a luxurious treat for discerning wine drinkers, showcasing the depth and complexity achieved through extended barrel ageing.

Visual: The De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Tawny presents a classic tawny colour, with warm hues of amber and copper shimmering in the glass. As the wine is swirled, streaks of amber become more pronounced, hinting at the concentrated nature of the tipple within.

Nose: Upon initial inspection, the nose is greeted by an alluring array of aromas. Dark, raisined fruits take centre stage, reminiscent of plump prunes and sun-dried figs. These rich notes are complemented by subtle hints of mocha and vanilla, hinting at the influence of oak ageing. As the wine breathes further, a touch of nuttiness emerges, adding a layer of complexity to the bouquet.

Palate: The first sip of the De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Tawny reveals a luscious and full-bodied texture, coating the palate with its concentrated flavours. The initial burst of sweetness is dominated by those rich, dark fruit flavours identified on the nose. However, the sweetness is beautifully balanced by a surprising dryness on the finish, preventing the wine from becoming cloying.

As the flavours develop, nuances of mocha and coffee emerge, subtly intertwined with the underlying fruit notes. The extended ageing in oak barrels is evident here, as hints of vanilla and spice seamlessly integrate with the core flavours, adding another dimension of complexity. The influence of the oak is further highlighted by a touch of tannic grip, which provides a pleasant structure and ensures a lingering finish.

Balance: The De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Tawny strikes a remarkable balance between sweetness, acidity, and tannins. The initial sweetness is undeniable yet beautifully restrained, allowing the full spectrum of flavours to shine through. The subtle acidity provides a refreshing lift, preventing the wine from becoming overly heavy. Finally, the gentle tannic grip adds structure and ensures a satisfyingly long finish.

Overall: The De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Barrel Aged Tawny is a truly exceptional example of an aged Tawny. The extended barrel ageing has resulted in a remarkably complex and nuanced flavour profile, with notes of dark fruit, mocha, vanilla, and spice all playing their part in a captivating symphony. The luxurious texture and lingering finish further elevate this Tawny to the status of a premium after-dinner drink.

Food Pairing:  Due to its richness and complexity, the De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Tawny pairs exceptionally well with a variety of decadent desserts. Consider blue cheese or other strong cheeses, fig puddings, rich chocolate desserts, or even a fine cup of coffee.

Conclusion:  The De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Barrel Aged Tawny is a remarkable achievement in Australian fortified wine. This 50cl bottle offers a luxurious treat for any wine enthusiast seeking a complex and rewarding drinking experience. Its impressive ageing, balanced profile, and lingering finish make it a truly special occasion wine.