Dow’s Port is one of the finest and most respected names in the world of fortified wines. Known for its rich history, dedication to quality, and intricate winemaking techniques, Dow’s has earned its place as a top choice for Port wine enthusiasts globally. In this article, we’ll explore the history, alcohol percentage, types, pricing, and how best to enjoy Dow’s Port.
Dow’s Port History
Dow’s Port has a long and distinguished history that spans several centuries, making it one of the most revered names in the world of Port wine.
1. Founding of Dow’s Port
Dow’s Port was founded in 1798 by brothers Philip and John Dow, two Englishmen who arrived in the Douro Valley, Portugal, to establish a business in the wine trade.
The Dow family quickly became prominent in the trade of Port wine, with the family business flourishing in the 19th century.
Initially, Dow’s Port wines were produced in the traditional manner, with a focus on high quality and age-worthiness, a hallmark of the Dow brand.
2. Evolution Through the Years
In the 19th century, Dow’s was known for producing rich, full-bodied Ports. The brand quickly earned a reputation for consistency and quality.
The company underwent several changes over the years, including a period of ownership by the Symington family, which still oversees Dow’s production to this day.
Dow’s has remained one of the few Port houses with a continuous legacy of family ownership and management, ensuring its authenticity and commitment to quality.
3. Dow’s in Modern Times
Today, Dow’s Port is one of the leading producers of high-quality Port wines, known for its premium offerings such as Vintage Ports, Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Ports, and aged Ports.
The company continues to focus on traditional winemaking methods, utilizing the same vineyards and cellars where they began centuries ago. Their commitment to craftsmanship ensures that Dow’s remains a leader in the Port wine industry.
4. Important Milestones in Dow’s Port History
In 1992, Dow’s produced one of its most celebrated vintage Ports, the 1991 Vintage, which received high praise from wine critics worldwide.
Dow’s earned recognition for their unique approach to creating balanced and refined Ports, especially their attention to the terroir and traditional methods of aging.
Over the years, Dow’s has won numerous awards and accolades, further cementing its place as a top producer in the Port wine industry.
Dow’s Port Alcohol Percentage
The alcohol content of Port wine is an important factor in its overall profile and character. Dow’s Port, like other Port wines, is a fortified wine, meaning that it has undergone a process where additional brandy is added during fermentation to increase the alcohol content.
1. Typical Alcohol Percentage of Dow’s Port
The alcohol percentage of Dow’s Port typically ranges between 19% and 20%.
This higher alcohol content is due to the fortification process, where grape spirits are added to stop fermentation, preserving the natural sweetness of the wine while increasing the alcohol concentration.
2. Why Fortified Wines Have Higher Alcohol Content
Fortification is a process in which brandy is added to the wine to halt fermentation, thus preserving the sugars in the grapes and resulting in a sweet and rich flavor profile.
The addition of brandy boosts the alcohol content, creating a robust wine that stands out for its complexity and body.
The higher alcohol content also helps to preserve the wine, allowing it to age for many years in the bottle.
3. Impact on Dow’s Port’s Flavor Profile
The higher alcohol content of Dow’s Port contributes to its full-bodied, rich texture, complementing the fruity and sweet flavors.
Dow’s Ports, especially the Vintage Ports, have a powerful and warming finish due to their elevated alcohol percentage, which is appreciated by connoisseurs for the intensity it imparts to the wine.
Dow’s Port Types
Dow’s Port is produced in several styles, each with its unique characteristics and aging potential. The diversity of Dow’s Port types allows wine lovers to explore different expressions of this classic fortified wine.
1. Vintage Port
Definition: Vintage Port is made from the best grapes of a single harvest and is only produced in exceptional years. These Ports are known for their depth, complexity, and age-worthiness.
Aging Potential: Vintage Ports are typically aged for a few years in the bottle before they are released, but they can continue to age for decades, developing even more intricate flavors over time.
Flavor Profile: Rich and full-bodied, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. As the wine ages, it develops more complex aromas of dried fruit, tobacco, and leather.
2. Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port
Definition: LBV Port is made from a single vintage but is aged for longer in the barrel than a typical Vintage Port. It is then bottled after four to six years, offering a more accessible version of a Vintage Port.
Aging Potential: While LBV Ports are ready to drink when bottled, they can still age well for several years in the bottle.
Flavor Profile: LBV Ports tend to be more approachable than Vintage Ports, with rich, fruit-forward flavors of plum, blackberries, and a hint of spice. They offer a smoother and less tannic experience compared to Vintage Ports.
3. Tawny Port
Definition: Tawny Ports are aged in wooden casks, which imparts a distinctive oxidative character to the wine. They are typically aged for a period of 10, 20, 30, or even 40 years.
Aging Potential: Tawny Ports are ready to drink upon release, and they do not require additional aging once bottled.
Flavor Profile: These Ports feature flavors of dried fruits, nuts, caramel, and a complex oxidative note. Older Tawny Ports develop more depth, with rich notes of toffee, roasted nuts, and a smooth, velvety texture.
4. Ruby Port
Definition: Ruby Port is the youngest and most basic style of Port. It is aged for a shorter period, typically around two to three years, in large tanks to preserve its bright, fruity character.
Aging Potential: Ruby Ports are meant to be consumed relatively soon after bottling and do not age in the bottle as Vintage and Tawny Ports do.
Flavor Profile: Bright, fruity, and youthful, with flavors of red berries, cherries, and a fresh, juicy finish. Ruby Ports offer a more straightforward, easy-drinking experience.
5. White Port
Definition: White Port is made from white grape varieties, and it is less common than the traditional red Ports. It is produced in a similar manner to Ruby Port but with white grapes.
Aging Potential: White Ports are usually consumed within a few years of bottling but can also be aged to develop additional complexity.
Flavor Profile: White Ports are typically dry or slightly sweet, with notes of citrus, stone fruits, and a crisp finish. They are perfect for serving chilled as an aperitif.
Dow’s Port Price
The price of Dow’s Port varies depending on the type, age, and rarity of the specific bottle. Given Dow’s reputation for quality and its diverse range of offerings, prices can range significantly.
1. Vintage Port Price
Price Range: Vintage Ports from Dow’s typically range from $100 to $300 or more per bottle, depending on the vintage and year.
Premium Vintages: Some of the most celebrated vintage Ports, like the 1994, 1997, or 2011, may fetch even higher prices, particularly for well-aged bottles.
2. Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port Price
Price Range: LBV Ports are generally more affordable than Vintage Ports, with prices ranging from $25 to $60 per bottle.
Accessibility: LBV Ports provide a more budget-friendly way to experience a high-quality Port without breaking the bank, making them an excellent choice for casual wine drinkers.
3. Tawny Port Price
Price Range: The price of Tawny Ports varies by age, with a 10-Year-Old Tawny typically priced between $30 and $60, while older Tawny Ports (20, 30, or 40 years) can cost upwards of $100 or more.
Aging Influence: The longer the Tawny Port has been aged, the higher the price due to the increased complexity and the care required in the aging process.
4. Ruby Port Price
Price Range: Ruby Ports are the most affordable option, generally ranging from $15 to $30 per bottle.
Value for Money: Ruby Ports provide excellent value for money, offering a quality experience at a lower price point.
5. White Port Price
Price Range: White Ports are usually priced between $20 and $50 per bottle.
Specialty Option: While not as common as red Ports, White Ports offer a unique alternative and are often priced similarly to other styles in the mid-range category.
How to Enjoy Dow’s Port
Dow’s Port is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or paired with food, here are some tips on how to enjoy Dow’s Port.
1. Serving Temperature
Best Served Chilled: While most Dow’s Ports (such as Tawny and LBV) should be served at room temperature (around 60-65°F or 15-18°C), White Ports and some lighter Ruby Ports can be served chilled.
Vintage Port: Vintage Ports should be served slightly cooler than room temperature, at around 60°F (15°C), to allow the aromas to open up and the wine to breathe.
2. Pairing Dow’s Port with Food
Cheese: Dow’s Ports, particularly Tawny and LBV, pair wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, such as Stilton, Roquefort, or aged cheddar. The rich and fruity flavors of the Port complement the creamy, salty notes of the cheese.
Chocolate: Dark chocolate and Dow’s Vintage or LBV Port make an excellent pairing. The complexity of the wine enhances the rich flavors of the chocolate.
Nuts and Dried Fruit: Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts, along with dried fruits like figs and apricots, are perfect accompaniments to Tawny Port.
Grilled Meats: Ruby Ports can pair well with grilled meats, especially when they have a bit of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
3. Savoring the Experience
Decanting Vintage Ports: When drinking Vintage Ports, it’s important to decant them to separate any sediment that may have developed during aging. Decanting helps the wine breathe and ensures the full expression of flavors.
Sipping Slowly: Dow’s Ports are rich, complex wines that are best enjoyed slowly, allowing the aromas and flavors to evolve over time. This allows you to fully appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Conclusion
Dow’s Port is a remarkable wine with a long history of excellence. From its founding in 1798 to its modern-day standing as one of the best Port houses in the world, Dow’s continues to produce wines that captivate connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Whether you prefer a rich, aged Tawny, a fruity Ruby, or an elegant Vintage Port, Dow’s offers a wide range of options to suit every palate and occasion. With a focus on quality, tradition, and innovation, Dow’s Port remains a benchmark in the world of fortified wines.
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