Types of Port Wine: A Guide to the Sweet and Complex World of Fortified Wines
Port wine, also known as vinho do Porto, is a sweet and complex fortified wine that has been enjoyed for centuries. Originating in the Douro Valley of Portugal, port wine is made from a blend of grape varieties and is aged in oak barrels before being bottled. The wine gets its name from the city of Porto, where it was traditionally shipped from to the rest of Europe.
There are several types of port wine, each with their own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. In this article, we will explore the different types of port wine and what makes them special.
Ruby Port
Ruby port is the most basic and affordable type of port wine. It is made from a blend of grapes and is aged for a minimum of 2 years in oak barrels. The wine has a deep red color and a fruity aroma with notes of black cherry, plum, and raspberry. It is typically sweet, with a smooth and medium-bodied texture. Ruby port is best served chilled and is a great choice for those who are new to port wine.
Tawny Port
Tawny port is a more complex and aged type of port wine. It is made from a blend of grapes and is aged for a minimum of 7 years in oak barrels. The wine has a golden-brown color and a nutty aroma with notes of hazelnut, caramel, and toffee. It is typically sweet, with a smooth and medium-bodied texture. Tawny port is best served at room temperature and is a great choice for those who want a more mature and sophisticated port wine.
White Port
White port is a unique and lesser-known type of port wine. It is made from white grapes and is aged for a minimum of 2 years in oak barrels. The wine has a pale yellow color and a floral aroma with notes of apricot, peach, and honey. It is typically sweet, with a smooth and light-bodied texture. White port is best served chilled and is a great choice for those who want a refreshing and fruity port wine.
Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port
LBV port is a type of port wine that is made from a single vintage and is aged for a minimum of 4 years in oak barrels. The wine has a deep red color and a fruity aroma with notes of blackberry, black cherry, and chocolate. It is typically sweet, with a smooth and full-bodied texture. LBV port is best served at room temperature and is a great choice for those who want a rich and complex port wine.
Vintage Port
Vintage port is the most premium and exclusive type of port wine. It is made from a single vintage and is aged for a minimum of 2 years in oak barrels and then aged for several more years in the bottle. The wine has a deep red color and a fruity aroma with notes of blackberry, black cherry, and chocolate. It is typically sweet, with a smooth and full-bodied texture. Vintage port is best served at room temperature and is a great choice for those who want a special and rare port wine.
In conclusion, there are several types of port wine to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Ruby port is a great choice for those who are new to port wine, while tawny port is a more mature and sophisticated choice. White port is a refreshing and fruity option, while LBV port and vintage port offer a rich and complex flavor. Whatever your preference, port wine is a delicious and versatile wine that is perfect for any occasion.