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. Few houses hold as deep a reserve of aging Colheitas, which lets Kopke release each vintage exactly when it reaches the style it is after.

The 1998 Colheita is blended from Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca grown on the Douro’s terraced schist slopes. More than two decades in seasoned oak casks have softened its youthful grip and built layers of nut and spice, while still leaving a core of red fruit. It sits at an appealing midpoint between fresh and fully mature Tawny. Like every Colheita, it is bottled ready to drink and needs no cellaring.

Why You'll Love It

• A mid-aged single-vintage Tawny that balances bright fruit with oak-aged complexity.
• Rich amber-ruby color with aromas of dried red cherry, milk chocolate, and toasted almond.
• A silky, generous palate with a gentle lift of citrus zest on the finish.
• An approachable introduction to Kopke’s celebrated Colheita style.
• The half bottle is just right for sharing at the end of a dinner party.

How To Serve It

• Serve slightly cool, between 56 and 60°F.
• No decanting is needed. It is bottled ready to drink and holds well for weeks after opening.
• Pour into small white wine stems or a dedicated Port glass.
• Pair with an almond tart with salted caramel, a slice of pecan pie, or a classic crème brûlée.