Dow's Port Late Bottled Vintage Port

Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port: A Detailed Tasting Experience with Food Pairings

Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port (LBV) is a cornerstone of the Port world, consistently lauded for its quality and considered a benchmark for LBV styles. Here at The General Wine Company, we're delighted to offer this exceptional Port, perfect for those seeking a rich and rewarding drinking experience.

This detailed tasting note will delve into the sensory profile of Dow's LBV, exploring its aromas, flavours, and overall character. We'll also explore some fantastic food pairings to elevate your enjoyment of this versatile Port.

Dow's LBV: A Colourful Introduction

Dow's LBV greets the eye with a deep ruby red hue, showcasing its concentration and maturity. As the light catches the glass, hints of garnet may emerge, adding complexity to the visual appeal. This colour is a testament to the ageing process in oak casks, which imbues the Port with its depth and richness.

Aromatic Delights: A Journey for the Nose

Swirling the glass releases a wave of enticing aromas that are characteristic of a well-aged Port. Dominating the bouquet are notes of black fruit, such as ripe blackberry, cassis, and plum. These are complemented by hints of dark chocolate, violets, and warm baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

A closer exploration might reveal subtle nuances of eucalyptus and menthol, adding a touch of freshness to the overall profile. The oak influence is present but seamlessly integrated, offering hints of vanilla and toasty notes.

On the Palate: A Symphony of Flavours

The first sip of Dow's LBV reveals a full-bodied and richly textured Port. The initial sweetness is balanced by a pleasant acidity that cuts through the richness and keeps the palate refreshed. The black fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully, joined by hints of dried fig, raisin, and prune.

As the Port lingers on the palate, subtle notes of tobacco, pepper, and liquorice emerge, adding complexity and intrigue. The tannins are present but beautifully softened by the ageing process, resulting in a smooth and elegant finish that lingers with a touch of dryness – a classic Dow's signature.

Food Pairings to Elevate the Experience

Dow's LBV's versatility extends to food pairings, making it a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to create memorable culinary experiences:

• Cheese: Dow's LBV pairs exceptionally well with strong cheeses. Stilton, aged Cheddar, and Roquefort all find perfect harmony with the Port's richness and sweetness. The blue cheeses, in particular, benefit from the Port's ability to cut through their creamy texture.
• Chocolate: For a decadent treat, pair Dow's LBV with dark chocolate desserts. The Port's fruit and spice notes beautifully complement the bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a truly luxurious taste sensation. Try a flourless chocolate cake, a rich chocolate brownie, or a selection of dark chocolate truffles.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: Dow's LBV makes a fantastic partner for a cheese board featuring dried fruits and nuts. The Port's sweetness and fruit notes echo the flavours of the dried fruits, while the nuts add a textural contrast that keeps the palate engaged. Apricots, dates, figs, walnuts, almonds, and pecans are all excellent choices.
• Fruit Crumbles and Pies: Dow's LBV shines with fruit crumbles and pies. The Port's acidity cuts through the sweetness of the fruit filling, creating a delightful balance. Try a classic apple crumble, a juicy blackberry pie, or a decadent plum tart.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Further Pairings

Dow's LBV's versatility extends beyond these classic pairings. Here are some additional suggestions to explore:

• Stilton and Pear: This combination is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the pear balances the richness of the Stilton, while the Port ties everything together with its fruit and spice notes.
• Chocolate and Salted Caramel: The addition of sea salt to the chocolate and caramel pairing adds another layer of complexity. The salt cuts through the sweetness and complements the Port's savoury notes.
• Braised Meats: Dow's LBV can also complement braised meats like lamb shanks or beef short ribs. The Port's fruitiness echoes the flavours of the braising jus, while its richness adds another dimension to the dish.

The Final Word: A Timeless Port Experience

Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port is a remarkable achievement, offering exceptional quality and a delightful drinking experience. Its rich and complex flavour profile, coupled with its versatility for food pairing, makes it a must-have for any Port aficionado or those seeking a unique and rewarding after-dinner drink.