Port wine, that glorious fortified nectar from Portugal's Douro Valley, has been warming British hearts for centuries. As the evenings draw in and temperatures drop, there's no better time to explore the rich, complex world of this beloved after-dinner drink.
What Makes Port So Special?
Unlike regular wines, port is fortified with grape spirit during fermentation, which stops the process and leaves residual sugar, creating its characteristic sweetness and higher alcohol content (typically 19-22%). This fortification process, developed originally to preserve wines during long sea voyages to Britain, gives port its unique character and longevity.
Our Top Port Recommendations
Best Overall: Taylor's Late Bottled Vintage 2017
This LBV represents exceptional value, offering the complexity of a vintage port at a fraction of the price. With its deep ruby colour and aromas of dark fruit, mint and spice, it's beautifully structured with firm tannins and a long, elegant finish.
Best Premium: Graham's Ne Oublie Tawny Port
For those seeking something truly extraordinary, this rare tawny port has been aged for over 50 years in wooden casks. The result is an incredibly complex wine with layers of caramel, dried fruit, nuts and spice, finishing with remarkable length and elegance.
Best for Beginners: Fonseca Bin No. 27
This approachable ruby port offers fantastic quality at an accessible price point. Bursting with ripe berry flavours and subtle spice notes, it's smooth, well-balanced and perfect for newcomers to the world of port.
Understanding Port Styles
Ruby Port
The youngest and fruitiest style, aged for 2-3 years in large vats. These ports are vibrant, full-bodied and packed with berry flavours. Perfect for casual drinking and excellent value.
Tawny Port
Aged in smaller barrels, tawny ports develop nutty, caramel characteristics as they oxidise slowly. Look for age-indicated tawnies (10, 20, 30 or 40 years) which blend wines of different ages to achieve consistent style.
Vintage Port
Made from the best grapes of a single declared vintage, these are the kings of port. They age magnificently for decades, developing incredible complexity. Requires decanting to separate sediment.
White Port
Made from white grapes, this refreshing style ranges from dry to sweet. Increasingly popular in cocktails, particularly the Porto Tonico (white port with tonic).
How to Serve and Enjoy Port
Serve ruby and vintage ports at 16-18°C in a generous wine glass to allow aromas to develop. Tawny ports can be served slightly cooler. While tradition dictates port should be drunk after dinner, don't be afraid to experiment - tawny port pairs wonderfully with cheese and desserts, while white port makes a superb aperitif.
Whether you're a seasoned port enthusiast or new to fortified wines, there's never been a better time to explore this fascinating category. From affordable everyday drinkers to once-in-a-lifetime vintage treasures, the world of port offers something for every palate and occasion.
