In the barrel-ageing process, aged tawny Ports are subjected to a gradual transformation through contact with air and wood. This results in considerable evaporation and concentration, with approximately 35% of the original volume of a 20 year old tawny disappearing before it is eventually bottled. Constant attention is needed as maturing barrels and vats of varied sizes will show marked differences as they age. The master blender, cellar master and coopers all play their parts in nurturing the maturing wines until finally a beautifully balanced aged tawny Port emerges.
Dow’s Aged Tawnies have a singular identity which strives to balance the proportion
of wood character with the original fine fruit flavours. To achieve this style, the Dow’s tasters have traditionally aged a proportion of their ageing tawnies in the larger well- seasoned oak vats, with capacities ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 litres. The result is that the Dow’s Aged Tawnies retain an attractive fruit character and lose less intensity over the years, with a deeper colour than most. This, combined with the hallmark drier style of Dow’s, creates unique Ports with a distinctive style.
Having spent two decades ageing in the Dow’s Lodge, our 20 Year Old Tawny has wonderful honeysuckle aromas with a hint of butterscotch. Refined and balanced with an elegant, dry finish, it is best enjoyed with desserts such as créme brûlée or tiramisu.
With a polished brown centre and orange- amber edges, this wine has a honeysuckle scent with discreet butterscotch notes. Refined and balanced on the palate, flinty and mellowed tannins meld with concentrated red berry fruit and lifted mineral freshness. nuanced flavours of tobacco lead to a focused, dry finish.