What is White Port?

White Port is a fortified wine made in Portugal, traditionally using white grapes.  Before I move forward, let me define what a fortified wine is:

• A Fortified wine is a wine during fermentation where a neutral spirit is added to the fermenting must (aka -Grape juice).

This spirit ‘fortifies’ the wine to a high alcohol level (16.5-20 % on average).  The high level of alcohol kills the yeast, stopping fermentation.  This leaves residual sugars along with fresh aromas and fruit flavors.  Since the wine is fortified, the bottle will last a long time as the high alcohol prevents spoilage.  This makes it versatile as it does not all have to be consumed immediately.

Why Drink it?

I was exposed to White Port when I was taking classes for my Sommelier Certification.  I had read about it during my studies but was able to try it in class.  I instantly fell in love with it.  I have a bit of a sweet tooth, so I’ve always loved dessert wines (which have some residual sugar).  However, this was completely different with its freshness and enticing aroma.

I purchased a bottle years ago that I used for cooking and sipping on.  However, there are a number of reasons why you would drink this:

• It Aids in Digestion,
• Pairing the Flavors/Aromas with Dishes,
• Aperitif, and
• Mix Into Cocktails.

For myself, it’s all about relaxation and enjoyment.  Think about it this way.  If I pour myself a glass and sit on my patio watching a great sunset, then I’m deliberately slowing down and focusing on the moment.  That alone makes it worthwhile to take the time out.

A Few Tips to Enjoy More

In order to enjoy a glass of White Port, there are a few things that are needed. 

First of all, is being able to find a bottle of it.  White Port is not necessarily rare but it’s hard to find.  Your regular stores most likely will not carry it.  My suggestion would be one of two actions:

• Check with a well-stocked liquor store that has a great selection of products to see if they carry it (in most cases, they may only have one or two).
• If they do not, see if they are willing to order you a bottle.

I was able to find this bottle at the LCBO store in Ontario on a recent visit.  However, I know that none of the shops where I live will have it.  This is the time when I travel that I will stop in large stores in different areas to check their selection. 

Once you are able to find a bottle, then I worry about glassware.  In my pictures, you can see that I used a small ‘Aperitif’ style glass.  This works fine or you can purchase Port glasses (which are next on my bucket list).  If you do not want to go to the expense of purchasing glasses, I recommend either a ‘Rocks’ glass or small wine glass.  Please remember that this is sweet and only a 2-3 oz pour is needed.

Lastly, you will want to chill down the Port.  This can be done by adding ice to it like I’ve mentioned in a previous article.  However, if I have the time and fridge space, I will chill down the bottle and then pour a sample.  Most times, I pour a warm sample and use my whiskey stones to get a slight chill on it. 

The goal is to serve the port between 42 – 50 F.  The colder it is, you may be missing some of the fresher aromas and flavors.  Too warm and the acid and sweetness will be pronounced and not in balance with everything else.