Of all of the big names in the port-world, Dow’s origins are somewhat maverick in style. The founder Bruno da Silva did completely the opposite of the major merchants by establishing his business in London (as opposed to Oporto) in 1798. Later merging with the Dow family in 1877 and now owned by the 5th generation Symington family. Hugely respected and regarded, Charles Symington continues to uphold the same style of wine as for which Dow’s has been known for centuries: a powerful wine with concentration and structure. The vast majority of grapes hail from the two flagship vineyards Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora de Ribiera in the heart of the Cima Corgo and Douro Superior respectively. Made from indigenous varieties Touriga Franca (40%), Touriga Nacional (36%), Sausao (10%) and 14% from a ‘field blend’ of older vine varieties. This is a stunning wine from a stunning year, wonderfully concentrated with classic spice, anise, chocolate and peppery tones alongside bundles of dried black fruits. Silky smooth, powerful and rich, this will continue to gain complexity over the next 50+ years. That is, of course, if you can wait that long let-alone live that long! Voted the No.1 wine and Wine of the Year in 2014 by Wine Spectator. We agree. Limited availability (please enquire).