Dow's Port is renowned for producing the finest port wines from the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley. This prestigious winery has been associated with excellence and quality for over two centuries. The region itself, located in northern Portugal, is known for its rugged and steep terrain, which provides ideal conditions for growing grapes for port production.
The Upper Douro Valley is characterized by its unique microclimate, with hot summers and harsh winters. This climate, combined with the schistous soil, contributes to the distinctive flavors and characteristics found in Dow's Port. The vineyards are carefully cultivated and the grapes are hand-picked, ensuring that only the best fruit is used in the winemaking process.
One of the reasons why Dow's Port stands out is its commitment to traditional winemaking methods. The grapes are still crushed by foot in granite lagares, large shallow tanks used for fermentation. This traditional foot-treading process is labor-intensive but allows for gentle extraction of flavors and tannins from the grape skins, resulting in wines with great depth and complexity.
Another factor that sets Dow's Port apart is its extensive collection of vineyards. The winery owns some of the oldest and best vineyards in the region, including Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira. These vineyards are carefully managed and each one contributes unique characteristics to the final blend of the port wines.
Dow's Port is also known for its commitment to aging its wines in oak barrels. The wines spend a significant amount of time maturing in these barrels, which adds complexity and richness to the final product. The winery has an impressive collection of vintage ports, with some wines aging for decades before they are released.
Personal experience:
I had the opportunity to visit Dow's Port and explore their vineyards in the Upper Douro Valley. The scenery was breathtaking, with terraced vineyards carved into the steep hillsides. It was clear that great care and attention to detail went into the cultivation of the grapes.
During the visit, I had the chance to taste a range of Dow's Port wines, from their entry-level ruby ports to their aged tawny ports. The flavors were rich and intense, with notes of dark fruits, chocolate, and spices. The tannins were well-integrated, giving the wines a smooth and velvety texture.
I was particularly impressed by the vintage ports, which showcased the incredible aging potential of Dow's wines. The older vintages had developed complex aromas of dried fruits, nuts, and tobacco, with a long and lingering finish. It was a true testament to the art of winemaking and the expertise of the Dow's team.
Dow's Port is a true representation of the excellence and tradition of port production in the Upper Douro Valley. Their wines capture the essence of the region, with their unique flavors and exceptional quality. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a dessert, Dow's Port is a true delight for any wine enthusiast.