Warre's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2008 (75cl, 20.2%)

Warre's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2008 is an unfiltered fortified port wine from Portugal's Douro Valley, bottled at 20.2% ABV. Warre's is the oldest British port house, with roots stretching back to 1670, now under Symington Family Estates. The 2008 LBV is built primarily on Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca, with Tinta Barroca rounding out the blend, from steep schist-laden Douro vineyards. It aged four years in wood, was bottled in 2012 without fining or filtration, then held another six years in the Warre's lodge before release. The nose opens with roses and violets, then plum, jammy blackberry, spice box and cigar. The palate is generous and sumptuous, with black fruit and damson, licorice, subtle mint, chocolate and Christmas pudding warmth, supported by schist-derived tannins and fresh acidity. The finish is long and textured, with dark fruit, spice and gentle tannic grip.