Types of Port Wine

Despite being known as a sweet wine, Port can vary from very sweet to extra dry. The sweetness of the wine is determined by the manufacturer, who conditions it by interrupting fermentation.

There are therefore four types of Port Wine, as shown below.

Ruby Port

Younger wines that spend between three and six years in the barrel. Slightly oxidized, they have an intense fruity aroma and a dark colour.

Where to store: Closed with a bar-type stopper, the bottle should be stored upright, avoiding direct light and excessive humidity; ideally at a constant temperature of between 16ºC-18ºC.

How to serve: Between 14ºC-16ºC. Once opened, it should be consumed within 1 month to maintain its freshness. It does not need to be decanted.

Tawny Port

Less full-bodied and with softer colours than Ruby, Tawny Port is aged in wooden barrels (greater oxidation), which gives it an aroma with notes of dried fruit, spices and wood.

How to serve: Ideal with chocolate, from the sweetest to the bitterest. Serve at 10ºC-14ºC.

Where to keep it: After opening the bottle, it can be kept for 3 or 4 weeks.

Porto Branco

White Ports are, as the name suggests, made from white grape varieties typical of the Douro region. They are aged in large oak vats.

How to serve: Chilled between 6ºC-10ºC. Once opened, it should be consumed within 1 month.

Where to store: Closed with a bar-type stopper, the bottle should be stored upright, avoiding direct light and excessive humidity; ideally at a constant temperature of between 16ºC-18ºC.

Rosé Port

This is an innovative wine made from red grapes of the traditional Port varieties. Its pink hue is obtained through light maceration of the grapes.

Where to store: The bottle should be kept upright at a temperature of 16ºC to 18ºC.

How to serve: Chilled between 4ºC and 6ºC. It can be enjoyed as an aperitif or in cocktails.