Cockburn's
Probably the most widely known brand in the UK, it was established in 1815 by George Wauchope and Robert Cockburn who quickly opened offices in London.
After the Second World War Cockburns changed hands several times and is today owned by Jim Beam. These multi-national companies all promoted the brand heavily and for many it is a name synonymous with Port; the mispronunciation of the name still causes amusement! The success of the Special Reserve meant there was no stock spare for a Vintage in either 1977 or 1980, and subsequent vintages have disappointed, however the purchase of Quinta dos Canais shows promise for the future. It is worth seeking out older vintages.