As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and evaluating numerous Ports from various producers, including Dow. I can confidently say that Dow is indeed a good Port, known for its exceptional quality and consistency.
Dow has a rich history of producing fine Port wines for over 200 years. This longevity speaks to their expertise and dedication to crafting exceptional wines. The vineyards of Dow are located in the Upper Douro Valley, a region renowned for its exceptional terroir and ideal growing conditions for Port grapes.
One of the standout characteristics of Dow's Ports is their superb concentration. When tasting a young Dow Port, you can expect intense flavors and robust tannins. This gives the wine a firm structure and the potential for long-term aging. These concentrated flavors are a result of the careful selection and blending of grapes from Dow's vineyards.
As Dow Ports age, they transform into wines of racy elegance. This evolution is marked by the development of subtle aromas, such as violet and mint. These delicate floral and herbal notes add complexity to the wine and enhance its overall appeal. The maturation process also softens the tannins, resulting in a smoother and more refined mouthfeel.
One of the distinguishing features of Dow's Ports is their drier finish. While some Ports can be quite sweet, Dow's wines tend to have a drier style, which sets them apart from others in the market. This drier finish is often described as the “hallmark” of Dow's Port wines and is appreciated by those who prefer a more balanced and less cloying experience.
Personal Experience:
I have had the pleasure of enjoying several Dow Ports throughout my career as a sommelier. One particular experience that stands out was tasting a bottle of Dow's 1985 Vintage Port. This wine had aged beautifully, showcasing the classic Dow characteristics of intense concentration and elegant aromatics. The wine displayed a harmonious balance between fruit, tannins, and acidity, resulting in a truly memorable tasting experience.
Dow is undeniably a good Port producer. Their wines consistently showcase superb concentration, racy elegance, and a distinctive drier finish. Whether you are a seasoned Port enthusiast or new to the world of fortified wines, Dow is a producer worth exploring. Their dedication to quality and their long-standing reputation make them a reliable choice for any Port lover.