Dow's 2018 LBV Port: A Masterpiece of Craft & Tradition + Leica Photo Contest!

FROM THE WIRES...

Dow's 2018 Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port (SRP $30) reflects the iconic Port producer Symington Family Estates’ commitment to quality that spans five generations, blending time-honored techniques with meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every bottle. It's a wine that speaks of its legacy, offering a rich and complex profile that delights both connoisseurs and new enthusiasts.

While more accessible than Vintage Port, Dow’s 2018 LBV shares the same provenance as Dow’s legendary Vintage Ports—namely the iconic Douro properties of Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira, both owned by Symington Family Estates. These vineyards, tended by five generations of Symington family winemakers, are where Dow's distinctive flavor profile, characterized by intense structure with fresh black fruit flavors, peppery tannins, and its hallmark drier style, is literally rooted. 

Carefully selected to showcase the unique characteristics of each vintage, Dow’s LBV is only bottled in the best years, making it a thoughtfully crafted wine worthy of savoring the season. As the name implies, LBV Port is developed from a single vintage Ruby Port and may enjoy up to six years in seasoned oak barrels before being bottled and released, a process reflecting the enduring commitment to quality and heritage.

This deep appreciation for enduring artistry has inspired a unique venture – the launch of Dow's Third Black and White Photography Competition in partnership with Leica, the illustrious camera brand. Just as the centuries-old winemaking process demands patience and an eye for detail in every bottle of Dow's, so too does the art of black and white photography. The competition's theme for 2025, "Craft and Tradition," reflects this shared philosophy—capturing the beauty and significance of the practices that shape our world, much like a well made wine or the perfect vintage. This initiative invites consumers to capture moments that reflect their own understanding of "Craft and Tradition," creating a powerful visual connection to the Dow’s values.

Sample.