Warre’s Otima 10YO Port NV 500ml

Warre’s Otima 10YO Port is a 10 year old tawny port from Warre’s, the house founded in 1670 that describes itself as the first British port company established in Portugal. It is blended from Douro wines aged in seasoned oak casks, bottled at 20% ABV in a 500ml bottle.

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Aged tawnies are made from wines picked out after each harvest as having the potential for long ageing. They mature in the lodges in seasoned 600 litre oak casks, slowly losing the deep red of youth and turning amber. The master blender then draws on several harvests to build a consistent house style, so the 10 year statement is the average age of the wines in the blend. Fermentation uses natural yeast, and the wine is fortified with grape brandy once it reaches the sweetness the winemaker wants.

Warre’s own tasting notes:

Nose: Rich tawny colour, with nuts and hints of mature fruit.

Palate: Light and delicate, nicely rounded, with dried fruit.

Finish: Long and elegant.

Warre’s describes its house style as fresh and elegant, and the 500ml bottle is a handy size for a dinner or two. It needs no decanting and is ready to drink. Serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature; a short spell in the fridge suits a warm evening. Warre’s pairs it with cheese, nuts or dried fruit after a meal, or simply on its own. Pecan pie and crème brûlée are good matches too.