Vintage & Background
The 1997 vintage was universally declared and is considered one of the finest of the late 20th century, producing wines with superb depth, structure, and longevity. Dow’s, renowned for its drier, more structured house style, created a powerful and classically proportioned Vintage Port that has matured beautifully over more than 25 years. Crafted primarily from fruit sourced at the famed Quinta do Bomfim and Senhora da Ribeira estates in the Douro Superior, this is a textbook example of Dow’s elegance and age-worthiness.
Appearance & Nose
Deep ruby-garnet colour with just a touch of brick at the rim. The bouquet is rich and aromatic, opening with blackberry, cassis, and plum, layered with notes of violets, dark chocolate, cedar, and warm spice. Secondary aromas of fig, tobacco leaf, and leather emerge as the wine breathes, adding depth and complexity.
Palate & Texture
Full-bodied and concentrated, the palate shows layers of ripe black fruits, damson, and liquorice, supported by firm yet velvety tannins and fresh acidity. Subtle savoury notes of spice, dark cocoa, and roasted coffee add dimension, leading to a long, dry, and elegant finish. The wine retains remarkable freshness and balance, reflecting Dow’s signature style.
Serving & Cellaring
Decant carefully to remove sediment and allow a few hours for the wine to open fully. Drinking beautifully now but still has decades of life ahead in the cellar.
