Warre's Otima 10 Year Old Port Wine

I am now a proud new owner of a bottle of 10 year old port wine from Warre's by way of holiday gifting.  Now, I can't exactly sit here and tell you with a straight face that I know the difference between a bottle of port wine and a bottle of Pabst Blue Ribbon - but you know what - it's pretty cool having this thing in my possession.  Makes me feel kinda grown up.  Like the first time I shaved, or changed a flat tire.  

If you haven't heard of Warre's before, the fascinating story of the Portugal-based firm goes something like this:  In 1670, two Englishmen, William Burgoyne and John Jackson opened offices in northern Portugal as Burgoyne & Jackson - initially a general trading company, exporting wines, olive oil and fruit, as well as importing dried cod and English woollen goods.  By all counts, this was one of the first, if not the first British companies founded in Portugal; by the close of the 18th century, Warre’s had become one of the leading exporters of port and hasn't looked back since.

As for the Otima 10 itself, comments one winemaker, "Otima 10 is especially suitable for those with a preference for the lighter style of Port.  It's delicate palate challenges the traditional perception of Port as a dark and full-bodied after-dinner drink."  And priced at about $20, it also challenges the notion that drinks of this sort must be drank by only those wearing fancy pants.

Cheers!