Very Old Fortified Minimum 20 years

This multivintage rare Tawny is an average age of about 25 years. Formerly known as Tawny Port, it holds a special place in the Woodstock stable. Wine industry pioneer Doug Collett made McLaren Vale Grenache and Shiraz fortifieds in the 1960s and 1970s. He aged them in old Brandy barrels for future generations. Today, his son Scott and grandson Peter continue the fortified tradition at Woodstock. 

Winemaking
Grenache and Shiraz ferments are “fortified” with the addition of grape spirit when about half of the natural sugar is fermented. The spirit kills yeast and preserves the remaining sweetness. The wine is clarified then matured in 100 to 300 litre oak casks for 20 years or more. Each year 4-5% is lost to evaporation from each barrel, but the luscious flavours evolve and concentrate as the wine matures.

The Wine
The red grape colours have precipitated away over time, leaving a true ‘tawny’ colour after two decades in barrel. A powerful and complex nose full of nuts, toffee, intense spice and fresh rancio characters reflect its age and complexity. On the palate, toffee, mocha, coffee and intense nuttiness all combine to create rich luscious flavours. The finish is long with lingering flavours of a fine very old fortified.

Serving Suggestion
An ideal digestive with coffee and chocolates, or alongside an intense aged cheese such as Gouda or Cloth Matured Cheddar.

Varieties: Grenache, Shiraz
Vintage: Multi-Vintage
Region: McLaren Vale, Australia
Alcohol: 20%
Bottle Size: 500ml