ABOUT THE WINE The history of the Kope Port House began in 1638, when Nicolau Kopke, Consul General of the Hanseatic League of Baltic states, began shipping wine to northern Europe. In 1781 a farm in the Douro was purchased, and the House began producing their own wines. The company remained in the hands of the Kopke family into the 1800s, when the great-great grandson of the founder was elevated to the title of Baron of Vilar. In 1922, the Quinta de San Luiz was purchased, an A-grade 125-hectare estate which would become the home of Kopke.
TASTING NOTES Ethereal aromas of dried cherries, cranberries and wood-spice, with fresh dough and pine-tree sawdust in the background. The palate is full and rounded, with red fruit and ground walnut flavours, super-soft and rounded yet deliciously fresh. Best served lightly chilled.
FOOD PAIRING Beautiful on its own as a winter-warmer, or with cheese, especially a creamy blue. Pairs well with light cakes, or with savoury snacks like nuts and olives in brine.
FRIARWOOD SAYS Kopke specialises in wood-aged Ports; this is produced in a more savoury style than mass-market examples, a superbly balanced, complex treat.
ABOUT THE WINE The Portuguese DOC of Dao is one of the oldest demarcated wine-regions in the world. Located inland in the northern part of the country, 120km southeast of Porto, the area has an ancient tradition of wine production, with warm dry summers and abundant winter rainfall. With 6 hectares of vines, planted in 2000 with traditional grape varieties in the heart of the Dao region, the Kelman family seeks to build their own legacy in this beautiful region.
TASTING NOTES Bright and intense, which wild blackberry fruit and spicy notes from French oak (12 months in second-fill barrels for the Touriga Nacional portion). Floral aromas of violet add to the complexity of the wine. The finish is dusted with smooth tannin, and dark fruit lingers on the palate.
FOOD PAIRING Meats and hard, salty cheeses. Excellent with smokey, gently spiced dishes.
FRIARWOOD SAYS Vegan-friendly; a delicious wine which offers excellent value.