About Port Wine

Portugal's Calling Card – Port Wine

Living in Portugal, the birthplace of port wine, makes it nearly impossible not to delve into the fascinating world of this extraordinary drink. However, the variety of styles and types can overwhelm even seasoned connoisseurs. Today, we’ll introduce you to three classic types of port wine to help you navigate this multifaceted universe.

White | Branco

While many associate port wine with red hues, the white variety should not be overlooked. Extra-dry white port surprises with its delicate and refreshing notes. White ports come in up to five levels of sweetness, making them intriguing for experimentation. Best served chilled, at around 7–10°C, white port pairs well with nuts, cheeses (especially blue varieties), fruits, and certain desserts.

Tawny | Tawny

If you’re seeking balance and elegance in flavor, a 20-year-old tawny port is an excellent choice. Crafted by the Alves de Sousa family, renowned among Portugal’s finest winemakers, this drink is a masterpiece. You can find it at Garrafeira Nacional, a nearly century-old shop featuring the country’s best wines. Optimal serving temperature is 12–16°C. It pairs beautifully with cheeses, particularly aged hard varieties, as well as nuts, dried fruits, caramel or honey desserts, and even poultry dishes with fruit-based sauces.

Ruby | Ruby

For those who appreciate bold and vibrant flavors, ruby port is the ideal choice. Best served at 16–18°C, it pairs excellently with desserts, especially chocolate, as well as blue cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits.