Few wines carry as much history, character, and richness as Port. With its deep ruby hues, velvety textures, and lingering sweetness, Port is more than just an after-dinner drink, it’s a centuries-old tradition in a bottle! Whether sipped by the fire, paired with cheese, or enjoyed as a special toast, Port remains one of the world’s most iconic fortified wines.
In honor of National Port Wine Day on September 10th, let’s explore the story of Port: how it’s made, its rise to fame, and why this Portuguese treasure continues to captivate wine lovers around the globe.
The History
The story of Port begins in the Douro Valley of northern Portugal, one of the world’s oldest officially demarcated wine regions (established in 1756).
In the late 1600s, British merchants began importing Portuguese wines, but they often spoiled during long sea voyages. To stabilize them, winemakers added brandy during fermentation and thus creating a fortified wine with higher alcohol and a sweeter, richer flavor. This new style became wildly popular, especially in England, and soon Port houses began springing up along the Douro River.
Famous names like Taylor’s (founded in 1692), Graham’s (1820), and Sandeman (1790) remain symbols of this historic trade today.
How it's Made
What sets Port apart is its fortification process. Here’s how it works:
- Fermentation Begins → Grapes (often a blend of traditional Portuguese varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Touriga Franca) are crushed and begin fermenting.
- Fortification → Midway through fermentation, grape spirit (aguardente) is added, stopping the process. This leaves natural grape sugars unfermented, creating Port’s signature sweetness.
- Aging → The wine is aged in large oak vats, barrels, or bottles, depending on the desired style.
This combination of ripe fruit, sweetness, and higher alcohol (19–22%) gives Port its signature richness and complexity.
Styles of Port
Port isn’t just one wine, it’s a family of styles, each offering a different experience:
- Ruby Port: youthful, fruit-forward, deeply colored; great introduction to Port.
- Reserve Ruby: higher quality, richer, and more complex than standard Ruby.
- Late Bottled Vintage (LBV): aged longer in barrel (4–6 years), approachable yet structured.
- Vintage Port: produced only in exceptional years; aged briefly in barrel, then decades in bottle. Collectible and age-worthy.
- Tawny Port: aged in smaller oak barrels, developing nutty, caramel, and dried fruit notes; comes in age designations (10, 20, 30, 40 years).
- White Port: made from white grapes, ranging from dry and crisp, to rich and honeyed; perfect for cocktails or chilled aperitifs.
- Rosé Port: a modern twist, offering fresh red fruit flavors and lighter sweetness.
Notable Producers
Several Port houses, known as “shippers”, dominate global recognition:
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Taylor Fladgate – historic house known for Vintage and LBV Ports.
- Suggestion: Taylor Fladgate Vargellas Vintage Port
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Graham’s – full-bodied, fruit-driven style; famed for its Vintage Ports.
- Suggestion: Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port (in store, not online)
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Dow’s – drier, more structured Ports with longevity.
- Suggestion: Dow's 20 Year Tawny Port
- Sandeman – recognizable by its iconic cape-clad logo; known for consistency.
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Fonseca – luxurious, rich, and velvety Ports.
- Suggestion: Fonesca Guimaraens Vintage Port
These houses, alongside many smaller quintas (estates), represent the heart of Port production today.
How to Enjoy Port
Port is most often enjoyed as a digestif, but it’s far more versatile than many realize. For Ruby & LBV Ports, pair with chocolate desserts, berry tarts, or strong cheeses like Stilton. Tawny Ports are excellent with roasted nuts, caramel desserts, or crème brûlée. White Port is amazing mixed with tonic and citrus for a refreshing aperitif, especially for those hot days! Vintage Ports are great to savor on their own or with bold blue cheeses.
Serving tip: Port should be slightly chilled to around 55–65°F, and once opened, most styles, except Vintage, can last weeks if stored properly.
The Legacy
From the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley to candlelit tables around the world, Port has carried its reputation as a wine of celebration, tradition, and indulgence for over 300 years.
This International Port Wine Day, raise a glass to Portugal’s most famous export. Whether you’re new to Port or a longtime admirer, there’s a style waiting to surprise you with its depth, sweetness, and history in every sip. Let us help you pick out your next Port in store or online today! :)