Port
Port is a fortified red wine from the Douro Valley in Portugal, known for its rich, sweet flavour and higher alcohol content due to the addition of brandy during fermentation.
Origin: Port has been made since the 17th century, with its creation tied to the needs of English merchants seeking a more durable wine for export. It was first produced in the Douro Valley, an area famous for its steep, terraced vineyards.
Production: Port is made primarily from red grape varieties like Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz. After fermentation, brandy is added to stop fermentation early, preserving the natural sugars and resulting in a sweeter, stronger wine.
Flavour Profile: Port is typically rich, sweet, and full-bodied, with flavours of dark fruits (plums, cherries), spices, and chocolate. It is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or after-dinner drink.