The Library Collection, Kopke

This is just another story. A story about wines with an enviable legacy. And we were given the chance to taste the three gems that make up The Library Collection. A memorable moment. This is a collection with more than a century’s worth of history and which comes onto the market with aromas and flavours that linger in the soul and on the palate. Kopke has a legacy spanning more than 385 years and is the oldest Port producer in the world.
Originality was not lacking in the creative minds behind this, both those who harvested and crafted these three relics and those who devised the packaging to store them in. What could be better than a book-shaped case to store the relics and accompany the story of these wines, which will fill the bookshelves of those who collect them. They are centuries of narratives steeped in flavours and knowledge. True rarities.
During the tasting, we had the chance to enjoy a Very Very Old Tawny, a Vermouth and a Quinine. Pearls aged in the Kopke cellars for more than a century. These are wines that have been handed down for generations and have a long history. Let’s start with the century-old Very Very Old Tawny (created by winemaker Carlos Alves, with Port wines dating from 1890 to 1930). This is a voluminous and attractive Port, starting with its dark colour, punctuated by an intense bouquet and a concentration of refined flavours and aromas, such as spices and coffee, with fine acidity and an elegant finish. 

Rescuing centuries of wine 

All this is due to the long years of cask ageing. This is followed by the Vermouth, which dates back to the beginning of the last century. Made to a secret recipe, it has a dark hue with golden highlights and hints of botanicals. On the palate, citrus flavours stand out, such as orange blossom. It also boasts balance and freshness. Finally, the Quinine, rescued from history, which also dates back to the 20th century. With its amber colour, medicinal aromas, it is sweet on the palate and, while not overpowering, has a gentle bitterness from the quinine.
The result of prolonged ageing on the banks of the River Douro, in Portugal, these three gems are now on the market. The Library Collection triology ‘book’ (comprising three 37.5 cl bottles) costs three thousand Euros and is limited to 1100 units. This pack can be purchased in some national wine shops or online on the brand’s website. To taste this inspiration, this story, is to experience part of the life of Kopke.
These wines, which were born in the Douro and travelled down the river to age for years in Kopke’s cellars, were tasted last February at the launch event, which took place in the Commercial Court Room at the Palácio da Bolsa in Oporto. And we must do them justice. These wines epitomise the best in the world of Port wines. A huge congratulations!