The Power of Port – Liquid Love at its finest

During the holidays – thoughts turn to gift giving & celebrating – to me Port wine is one of the most appropriate wines around. Port, is both civilized and indulgent at the same time.

This aside, not all “Ports” are created equal.

Real Port comes from Portugal. The only wines technically allowed to be called PORT – have to be from Portugal, none the less – much the same way as the word “Champagne” has been appropriated by many people making bubbly type wines (as less than legal than it may be to do so given the French’s tenacity for defending the word) the same happens with Port.

Several “port style” wines come from Australia, South Africa, Canada and the US and it can be interesting to do a tasting comparison of classic Port versus “New World” port style wines.

As for the Portuguese Port, there are many styles to choose from ranging in a variety of price points & styles including:

Crusted –  A blend of Port wines from several vintages bottled in the style of Vintage Port.

Garrafeira – Lesser know, intermediate vintage dated style of Port that is in limited production.

Late Bottle Vintage- One step up from Ruby.

Ruby- The most widely produced and least expensive style of Port – made from red grapes.

Tawny – Aged in wooden barrels to encourage a “nutty” flavor and oxidization which accounts for the “nutty” color.

Vintage – The finest Port produced entirely from grapes of a declared vintage year.

White - White Port is made from white grapes.

Port makes a great match with chocolate or blue cheese & walnuts, and it can make a terrific gift for any occasion – including Christmas & New Years!.

Cheers to love!

Past Wine Tips