Wines Douro Warres 1996 - 1996

Warre’s 1996 Douro table wine is a fascinating expression from one of Portugal’s most celebrated wine regions. Produced by a house more widely acclaimed for its Ports, this particular vintage showcases the growing expertise of Douro producers in crafting dry red wines of remarkable character. The 1996 vintage would predominantly feature traditional Douro grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), sourced from steep schistous vineyards overlooking the Douro River. With careful vinification—often fermentation in stainless steel or granite lagares followed by maturation in oak barrels—this wine develops complexity, structure, and finesse, especially after ample ageing like in this bottle.

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is defined by its rugged terrain of terraced hillsides and a climate that swings between hot, dry summers and cold winters. The schist soils here impart a unique minerality and help regulate vine hydration, leading to wines of depth and power. Winemaking in Douro boasts a history dating back centuries, with its fortified Ports world-renowned, yet the last few decades have seen a renaissance of Douro dry reds, now prized for their robust structure, dark fruit, and earthy undertones.

With its evolved notes from almost three decades of ageing, this Warre’s Douro would pair wonderfully with richly flavoured dishes. Traditional Portuguese fare such as braised lamb with rosemary, roasted game birds, or feijoada (a hearty bean and meat stew) would be excellent choices. It would also elevate mushroom-based risottos or mature cheeses, enabling its savoury and tertiary aromas to shine.

Before serving, allow the wine to breathe and consider decanting it to separate any sediment and allow full aromatic expression. Optimum tasting temperature is around 16-18°C, which allows both the fruit and the tertiary notes from ageing to be appreciated at their best. Enjoy this rare Douro table wine as a testament to the region’s heritage and versatility.