"Fine Tawny is aged for about the same amount of time as Cockburn's Fine Ruby (about three years), but in smaller barrels to hasten aging to a reddish amber (tawny) color and to develop a smoother, nutty flavor. Many of these wines are also left "upriver" in the Douro Valley to age in the hotter climate (the "Douro Bake"), thus speeding the aging process and lightening the color. Tawny port is bottled filtered and ready to drink. Tawny is a smoother, more mellow drink than Ruby. From its aging in wood, Cockburn's Fine Tawny loses some of its color and sweetness and acquires the classic nutty/butterscotch flavor of tawny port. This wine is produced from grapes grown in the lower Douro, which are less pigmented and better suited for tawny port.Cockburn's Fine Tawny has a smooth full flavor with a toffee nose. As a dessert wine, Fine Tawny pairs well with cream-based desserts such as cheesecake or crème brulee. Cockburn's Fine Tawny may also be enjoyed chilled, and served with almonds or pecans."