Cockburn's Special Reserve was originally introduced in 1969 as the first great Reserve Port, creating an entirely new Port category that was fundamental to the success of Port and the Douro over the following decades. Cockburn's Special Reserve is a very fine wine selected for its richness and concentration, from the finest vineyards in the Upper Douro and matured in oak casks for five years. This longer wood ageing gives its fruity and full-bodied palate a distinctive dry finish, making Cockburn's Special Reserve the benchmark for all Reserve Ports.

The nose is reminiscent of a bright, fresh morning during early Spring. Notes of citrus fruits, Granny Smith apple and subtle hints of warm toastiness follow spring blossoms such as hawthorn. The palate is lively and fresh, with more mature notes of pineapple, nutmeg, white pepper and oriental zest.