20 year old Tawny Port by Dow

[Alex K.]

October 19th is my Grandfather's birthday and if he was still alive he would be a mere 112. As he was Scottish I decided to have a little snifter of Malt Whisky to celebrate and the one I chose was Glenmorangie Port Wood Finish (as I had a miniature). Very pleasant but a little hot but it put me in a Port frame of mind and Lady K wanted something that was not whisky so the Dow 20 came out.

Colour is a beautiful tawny-amber with a feint pink tinge, clear as a bell and sticking to the sides like first year students at the Fresher's Ball. The nose is filled with raisins and oranges with a fair alcoholic kick. Mouthfeel is a gorgeous texture and the orange flavour smashes to the fore like the Tango man with a kipper. A fair kick comes from the alcohol but it doesn't overwhelm the flavours just making a nice, warm feeling as it settles. Can't spot any toasted nuts which is unusual when I'm on Tawnies - might pick them up tomorrow or Friday when the vicar comes to tea. Maybe a little simple for a 20 year old.

Tried after a heavily aged Gruyere - died.

Tried after straight-up Cadbury's Dairy Milk chocolate - not bad, became a little grapefruity but the milk ruined it a bit making it too bitter.

Tried after Hachez Cocoa d'Arriba 77% chocolate - ooohh, lovely. Strong orange peel notes and a wonderful warm feeling made by high quality chocolate and pretty good Port.

I don't do marks out of a hundred and I'm not big on Tawnies but this is a very pleasant drink with a nice blend of black and citrus fruit and warmth - would buy again if I could get the same price (@£15).