Dow's, 1961 Late Bottled Vintage Port ( LBV )
Late Bottled Vintage Port Mid-High Shoulder level
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 20%
Price:
£375.00
Description
Dow’s 1961 Late Bottled Vintage Port (Bottled 1965)
Vintage & Style Background
Harvested in 1961 and bottled in 1965 after four years in cask, this LBV represents the traditional style of Late Bottled Vintage Port. Unlike modern filtered LBVs designed for early drinking, these mid-20th century examples were often unfiltered, retaining the depth and structure of a declared Vintage Port. Dow’s, known for its firm, dry-edged house style, produced a Port of real character in this lesser-known but fascinating vintage.
Appearance & Nose
After decades in bottle, the wine now shows a tawny-garnet colour with amber highlights. The bouquet is rich and tertiary, offering aromas of dried figs, raisins and prune, alongside notes of leather, tobacco, cedarwood, and earthy spice. There is a subtle sweetness on the nose, offset by savoury and balsamic tones.
Palate & Texture
On the palate the Port is mellow and smooth, with flavours of dried dark fruits, toffee, roasted nuts, and a touch of mocha or spice. The Dow’s trademark drier edge comes through in a slightly firm, savoury finish, balancing the residual sweetness. The texture is velvety, with softened tannins but still enough structure to carry the wine to a long, elegant close.
Maturity & Drinking Window
Now fully mature, this 1961 bottled in 1965 is best enjoyed in the near term. Well-stored bottles can still deliver remarkable complexity, but the fruit is at a very delicate stage. Any further ageing will accentuate oxidative and nutty notes rather than fruit. Careful provenance is key to how well it shows.
Food Pairing & Serving Suggestions
Serve lightly cool (14-16 °C) and decant gently to remove sediment. Ideal with blue cheeses like Stilton, with nutty desserts such as walnut tart, or simply enjoyed as a contemplative glass on its own.
Overall Impression & Verdict
Dow’s 1961 Late Bottled Vintage Port (bottled in 1965) is a fine example of how traditional LBVs can evolve into something closer to a mature Vintage Port. It offers dried fruit richness, spice, and savoury nuance wrapped in Dow’s signature dry elegance. For lovers of classic Port, this bottle is both a rarity and a rewarding insight into an earlier era of LBV production.
Bottled 1965
Learn more about Dow’s
Condition
Bin soiled labels
Mid/High Shoulder level
Rewaxed capsule
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