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Tawny Port
Tawny Port is a sweet, fortified wine from the Douro river valley in Portugal. Tawny ports are long aged, anywhere from 10 to 40 years. They are aged in large “pipes”, old barrels of 600 liters. This long aging causes the wine to lose its’ original deep color while acquiring unique aromas and flavors more associated with aging as opposed to youthful fresh fruit. As fortified wines, Tawny ports are typically served in smaller portions with 3 oz being typical versus a normal 5 oz pour for a still wine. Port is typically enjoyed after a meal; possibly with dessert or cheese or just by itself.

Dow’s Ports
Dow’s Ports trace their heritage back to 1798 when the house was originally established by Bruno da Silva. In 1877 a merger with Dow and Company brought the Dow name to the winery. In 1912, Dow’s became part of the Symington family of Port houses, continuing under the Dow’s name and with its’ signature style.

A notable feature of Dow’s Tawny Ports is that they are a bit drier than many other Port houses. The slightly drier approach allows other flavors and aromas to take more of a center stage. Whether winter or summer, I prefer to drink Tawny Port chilled. Being fortified and oxidized, Tawny Ports easily keep for weeks in the refriferator. Stored in the ‘frig, your Tawny Port is ready anytime you are.

Disclaimer: I received these two bottles as samples. No other compensation was offered, all opinions expressed are mine.

Dow’s 10 Year Tawny Porto (sample, $45 SRP) 20% abv
Eye: Medium tawny
Nose: Medium plus intensity aromas of caramel, creme brulée, pecans, subtle woody notes, hints of ripe blueberries and raisins in the background.
Mouth: Medium sweet, medium plus acidity, medium minus sandy tannins, full body, high alcohol, medium plus flavor intensity, medium plus finish of caramel and dried apricots.
Observations: A very nice tawny port. For me, 10 year Tawny is the perfect balance point between price and quality for a Port I’m happy to have without needing an occasion.

Dow’s 20 Year Tawny Porto (sample, $78 SRP) 20% abv
Eye: Pale tawny
Nose: Medium plus intensity aromas of caramel, toasted almonds, candied orange peel, dried apricots, creme brulée, allspice
Mouth: Medium sweet, medium plus acidity, low silky tannins, full body, high alcohol, medium plus intensity flavors, long finish. Flavors follow the aromas with addition of spicy cinnamon notes, and a touch of raisins in the background.
Observations: Compared to the 10 year Tawny, 20 year is more refined, with super smooth presentation of acidity and tannins while still being lively in the glass. I find 20 year Tawny Port perfect for celebrating an occasion, you can decide how big an occasion is required!

Tawny Port Pairings
Tawny Ports are so complete, I prefer to keep them separate from dessert, or to treat them as dessert all by themselves. Why not enjoy them anytime you want to sit down and relax. Sitting by a fireplace in the winter, or a campfire in the summer is perfect. Or after an afternoon of yardwork, why not sit down to enjoy the view of your work? Tawny Port is perfect in any season, take a look below!

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