Port Wines | Prices, Types & Reviews
Written By: Brian Freedman on Wed, Jul 12th 2006
Port is the sweet, fortified wine for which Portugal is famous. Like Champagne, Port must be made only in a specific part of the country and through a process that has been strictly defined by law. Essentially, this somewhat syrupy, wonderfully soothing dessert drink is made by adding brandy to a wine whose sugars are only partially fermented. This produces a drink whose alcohol is relatively high (generally between 18-20%) and whose sweetness is pleasant but not cloying.
There are several types of Port. They range from the caramel-flavored Tawny to the grape-y and sweet Ruby Port. Vintage Port is produced only in the best years, and the finest of them can age for more than 50 years before reaching their peak levels of flavor and aroma. Port-style dessert wines are made all over the world, from California to Australia, and though many of them are excellent, they are not legally allowed to be called Port. No matter, though: Wherever it is made, Port and Port-style dessert wines are simply wonderful.
Read more and get the latest wine prices, ratings and reviews at Classic Wines!
