Port is an esteemed fortified sweet wine from Portugal. Centuries ago, Port producers fortified their wines with Brandy and other spirits in order to stabilize them and keep them fresh during long, warm voyages across the seas to England. Today, the tradition still persists and Ports are fortified with “Aguardente” spirit that increases their alcohol up to 22% ABV. This results in a high alcohol, sweet, fortified wine.

How is Port Made?

Traditionally, Port was made by “foot treaders,” people that gently stomped on the grapes to quickly release the juice and dark color needed for Port. Some premium producers still use this method today, although the costs of employing the treaders increases the price of the wine.

Most commonly, wine-makers use machines to automate the pressing phase and mimic the delicate pressing of human feet. Some Ports are aged in the winery and then bottled for immediate consumption. Others, like Vintage Ports, are made with the highest quality grapes and can age in the bottle for decades! As Ports age, the flavors change from fresh fruits to dried fruits, and the wine develops into a highly concentrated expression of Port wine.

Port Styles

Basic Ruby: Juicy red and black fruits, aged for 3 years, early drinking Port

Reserve Ruby: Concentrated juicy and red black fruits, early drinking Port

Late Bottle Vintage: Aged 4-6 years, ripe black fruit, some dried black fruit

Crusted: Ripe black fruit, some dried fruit, aged for 2 years, an filtered heavy deposit (sediment)

Vintage: The best grapes from the best vintage, aged for 3 years, can improve age in the bottle for decades

Tawny: Lighter flavors, early drinking Port

Reserve Tawny: More concentrated fruit, aged for 7 years

Age-Indicated Tawny: Dried fruit, caramel, coffee, walnut, aged for decades

Colheita: Dried fruit, caramel, coffee, walnut, aged for 7 years, from a single estate/vineyard

White Port: Fresh and fruity styles, or styles with citrus peel, dried stone fruits, caramel and nuts

Pink Port: Rosé, red berry fruits

Food Pairings

Port pairs well with an array of dishes, mainly desserts. It compliments appetizers like Parmesan and Blue cheeses, dried apricots, figs, and nuts. It is also served alongside chocolate cake, apple pie, cheesecake, nut cakes, fruit tarts, Crème Brûlée, and raspberry sauces.

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