FW#2: Dow's Trademark Finest Reserve Port

Pours a deep velvet purple into a tulip glass. Slightly medicinal nose with very fresh grapes and some liquorice. Rich, sweet and concentrated plum notes, subtle peach and more than a hint of woody spice and mild woodsmoke come across up front. Less obvious dried fig and Christmas cake flavours than the Maynard's 2008 late bottled vintage (LBV) I had over Christmas. This wine wears its grapes on its sleeve and seems a simpler but no less delicious drink than that particular LBV. A soft acidity underscores the fruitiness and the finish is long with a sherbet dryness at the end along with considerable alcoholic warmth.

Dow's Trademark Reserve, as its name suggests, is a Reserve Port (formally known as a 'Vintage Character' port - a term now prohibited) meaning it is a Ruby which has been approved by the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto (IVDP). In effect, if it was an ale it would be a Premium or an ESB. It is aged for up to 4 years in oak casks without air exposure, thus does not undergo oxidation like a tawny. This wine has won awards consistently each year since its release in 2007 at prestigious events like the Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine Challenge. Currently a steal in Sainsbury's at £6.99, a half price offer lasting until the 22nd Jan.