2003 Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port, Portugal

Here’s a full tasting profile for the 2003 Dow’s Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port, a rich and structured expression from one of the Douro’s most respected producers:

Producer: Dow’s (Symington Family Estates)

Region: Douro Valley, Portugal

Vintage: 2003 (a declared vintage year for Dow’s)

Style: Late Bottled Vintage Port—matured in wood for 4–6 years before bottling

Grape Varieties: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca

ABV: ~20%

Nose :- Deep and expressive: aromas of black cherry jam, licorice, and stewed figs. Notes of black tea leaf, pepper, and mint. Subtle floral tones—violets and rose tea—emerge with age

Palate :- Intense and full-bodied: flavors of blackberries, candied damson plums, and molasses. Layers of bitter chocolate, clove, and spicy herbs. Firm tannins with a backbone of peppery warmth and savory depth. Less sweet than many LBVs, showcasing Dow’s signature drier style

Finish :- Long and structured: lingering notes of dark fruit, smoke, and black pepper. Balanced acidity keeps it fresh and age-worthyWill continue to evolve beautifully over the next decade

A serious LBV with the complexity and aging potential of a vintage port