I have never been a big fan of sweet wines, but I do put dessert wines in a different category. Recently I have had several outstanding Sauternes and Ports that I really enjoyed. The problem is that they are usually very pricey. I have been looking for a less expensive Port that I could serve more often because of a lower price. A friend recommended that I try this one.

2003 Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Porto ($19.19)

winemaker's note: These wines come from the same vineyards that, in a year when a Vintage is "declared", produce Vintage Port. However, as they are bottled between the fourth and sixth year after the harvest, they mature more quickly and are ready to drink much sooner.

Deep dark color.

On the nose: A floral note, dark cooked fruit, and figs.

On the palate: Dark fruit, cooked plums, creamy texture, and some sweetness, but not overly so. A long finish with a bit of bitter tannins on the end.

I intend to put a case of this away.