Sandeman 20-Year-Old Tawny Port

- Serve chilled at 12-16°C in small tulip-shaped port glasses to concentrate aromas and maintain brightness.
- Present with a selection of aged hard cheeses such as Parmesan Pecorino or Manchego on a rustic wooden board garnished with dried figs and candied nuts for an elegant savory-sweet contrast.
- Pair with a rich pecan or almond tart drizzled with a warm bourbon cream sauce to echo and elevate the port’s nutty caramel notes.
- Create an indulgent dessert twist by pouring a measure over vanilla or caramel ice cream topped with crushed toasted hazelnuts for texture and warmth.
- Use as a finishing drizzle on a warm apple or pear tarte tatin served with crème fraîche to highlight the port’s dried fruit and toffee complexity.
- For adventurous pairing serve alongside smoked duck breast or foie gras with a fig compote balancing richness and sweet acidity.
- Experiment with a sophisticated cocktail by mixing port with a splash of aged bourbon a dash of bitters and a brandied cherry garnish—“Bar Drake Manhattan” style.
- Celebrate special occasions with a port flight served alongside a dessert tasting: from caramelized nuts and spiced biscotti to dark chocolate ganache with raspberry coulis showcasing the port’s layered flavors.

For optimal storage of Port:

- Temperature: Maintain a cool stable temperature between 12°C and 18°C (55°F to 65°F) ideally around 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F). Avoid fluctuations which can degrade the wine and affect cork integrity.

- Light Exposure: Keep the bottle in a dark environment away from direct sunlight and artificial light to prevent premature aging and flavor damage.

- Sealing: Ensure the bottle has an intact cork. For unopened bottles the cork should remain moist to prevent shrinkage. Once opened re-seal tightly and store upright.

- Bottle Position: Store unopened bottles lying on their side to keep the cork moist. For opened bottles store upright to minimize air exposure to the wine.

- Humidity: Maintain relative humidity around 70-75% to keep the cork from drying out which can cause oxidation.

- Special Tips for Port:
- Tawny Port including 20-year-old types can generally be stored unopened in cool stable conditions and laid down. Once opened store upright sealed and in a cool place; refrigeration is not mandatory but beneficial. Drink within 4 to 6 weeks for best quality after opening.
- Avoid vibration or movement to preserve longevity.

These conditions apply both to unopened and opened bottles with opened bottles requiring more care to limit oxidation by sealing and upright storage.