Founded in 1638 by Nicolau Kopke, C.N. Kopke is widely recognized as the oldest Port house still in operation. Its reputation rests above all on Colheita, a single-harvest Tawny Port that ages in seasoned oak casks, known as pipas, for at least seven years and often for many decades before bottling. Kopke holds one of the deepest reserves of old Colheitas in the Douro, which is why vintages from the 1970s can still be released today, freshly bottled after decades in wood.

The 1979 Colheita is blended from Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca grown on the Douro’s steep, terraced schist slopes. More than four decades of slow evolution in cask have given it a smooth, rounded character and deep, sweet complexity, while keeping it remarkably approachable. Like every Colheita, it is bottled ready to drink and throws little sediment.

Why You'll Love It

• A smooth, accessible old Tawny with more than 40 years in oak, from the oldest Port house in existence.
• Aromas of dark molasses, toasted hazelnut, and golden raisin.
• A rounded palate layered with dried plum and gentle spice.
• A satiny, warming finish that lingers well after each sip.
• A memorable birth-year or anniversary bottle for anyone celebrating 1979.

How To Serve It

• Serve slightly cool, between 58 and 62°F.
• No decanting is needed. Colheitas are bottled ready to drink and stay fresh for weeks after opening.
• Pour into small white wine stems or a dedicated Port glass.
• Pair with sticky toffee pudding, hazelnut praline cake, or a plate of aged Gouda with dried figs.