Dow's, Reserve Port

Mellow, elegant, a bit delicate but drinking well.

This tasting note also refers to Dow’s Finest Reserve Port (black label) not the one including 'Trademark' in its name. (I guess this is just their standard ruby). Bottle is open for 24 hours, dark as ink, smells of strawberry, chocolate and eucalyptus, light body, not that sweet, in the mouth strawberry and dark chocolate, is only a little bit hot/spirituous (after opening this was very pronounced), smooth in the mouth, in the aftertaste acidity, strawberry and a little bit …

Decent nose. Good fruit and vanilla on the palate but too woody on the middle/end tastes, even after time in the glass. Disappointing, despite its modest price. 80 points at this stage. Note: I refer to Dows Finest Reserve Port (black label) not 'Trademark' or 'Boardroom' which are shown in some of the photos above and may be different. 24h later, this was a different wine. Prunes on the nose, prunes, damsons, cherries and chocolate on the rich, sweet palate. …

Warm, soft and full-bodied port, with ripe dark-red fruit (cherries, blackberries, a touch of cassis), dark chocolate, herbs, vanilla and pepper. Good value.

Earthy, peppery

Smooth and mellow tawny flavors, well-rounded and light on the palate, some woody bitterness towards the finish. Very good.