PORTUGAL PORT WINE HOW TO

Port wines, for the most part, are full-bodied, sweet red wines with notes of berries, caramel, cinnamon, and chocolate. Diverse Port Styles: Unraveling the Types of Port Wine Depending on different winemaking factors, you can end up with a sweet and complex Port wine or a drier and brighter variety. That said, some Port producers bypass the oak casks and let the wine age in the bottle. Oftentimes, young Port wines are aged in large oak barrels for about 18 months. By contrast, if the winemaker adds the spirits after the fermentation process is complete, the result is a dry fortified wine with less sugar. If the winemaker fortifies the wine before fermentation is finished, the result is more residual sugar that creates a sweet wine. The grapes are pressed to extract the juice and begin the fermentation process. The Artistry Behind Port Wine: How Is It Crafted?Īs with all winemaking, Port production begins once the grapes are harvested. This high ABV is one reason why you usually only see Port served in small portions. Because it's fortified, Port has a higher alcohol content compared to the average glass of wine - it's closer to 20% ABV (alcohol by volume) versus 12% alcohol, which is considered the standard in the United States. It's also popular on its own as a dessert.

Port is considered a dessert wine since it most often has a sweet taste and is enjoyed during or after dessert. Still, many wines calling themselves Port may come from other regions, so always check the wine label says 'Porto.” In fact, the name “Port” comes from Porto, the coastal city along the Douro River. Much like authentic Champagne must come from the specific wine region in France, true Port must come from Portugal's Douro Valley. Unlike other types of wine, fortified wine is made by adding a distilled spirit, particularly a grape spirit such as cognac or brandy. Port is a sweet fortified wine from Portugal that's made with aromatic grape varieties, primarily Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cão, and Tinta Roriz (also known as Tempranillo). The Intricacies of Port Wine: What Is It Exactly?

PORTUGAL PORT WINE HOW TO

Let's delve into the subject of 'what is Port wine,' the process of its creation, the various types of Port wine available, and of course, how to best savor it. And when it comes to drinkable digestifs, the Port wine is a favorite among wine lovers.Īlthough best known as a sweet wine, Port has many more layers to it that makes it a fascinating drink to explore. Whether you've just had dinner at home, a friend's party, or your favorite restaurant, a little sip after your meal can be a sweet treat to finish off the experience.

Portugal port wine