Happy Wine-Down Wednesday Winos!

It's a foggy gray day here in the Ojai Mountains, but have no fear I have just the right wine for you and your wallet that will keep you toasty. 

Port- happiness, warmth, and love in a glass

Tell me about it!

Port is wine is fortified with Brandy or grape spirits with origins from the Douro Valley of Portugal. True Port is only produced from Portugal just as Champagne can only be produced in Champagne, France; however, "port-style" wine can be produced in other countries. While there are many different types of Port, I will just discuss Ruby Port which is the most inexpensive and easily accessible. It is a great gateway or starter Port for the newbies. They are young, fruity, sweet, and ruby in color (hence the name). 

The great thing about a Ruby Port is that it doesn't need aging, once opened doesn't need a decanter and can be served right away. A little goes a long way so you won't need to worry about drinking it quickly like you would with a Vintage Port which only lasts 24-48 hours after opened. 

Atmosphere

While most people have an image of Port being an old man's drink, I have fond memories of relaxed gloomy days, on the couch, candles lit, good music playing in the background, close friends around with great conversations, and a delicious glass of Port in hand. The 19-22% alcohol content provides and toasty warmth that subtly moves through your body. I am convinced that it could easily be the wine of hipsters since it isn't a trendy wine, it is the unknown wine that you too can know about before it becomes cool.

Today's Pick

I could have gone with a Port that I have tried before but where is the fun in that? We are going to experience Sandeman Ruby Porto together. Pro tip: if it says "Porto" it is an authentic Port produced in Portugal, as this is. I wanted to go with one that was easily accessible, so I picked this up at my local Vons/Safeway for $12.99. Like most Ports it does have a masculine labeling and branding to it but don't be discouraged because I'm convinced you will feel like a badass when you pick this up, as it is 19.5% alcohol.

I always start by smelling the wine and make sure there is no vinegar smell to it, that would signal that the wine has gone bad. After doing a swirl and sniff test to open up the bouquet, it has a strong plum and cherry smell. Take a sip with a tad bit of air and it feels warm on the tongue, plum and berry taste, light on the tannins. I'd say most of my tasting experience is on the tip and middle of the tongue. If you are in a cheese mood and have a bit on bleu cheese, grab it the two would taste fabulous together. If you are in a chocolate mood go for a dark chocolate, they don't call Port a dessert wine for nothing!

My Experience
For me personally, I've acquired a taste for the more complex Vintage Ports. I think as a beginner and/or being on a budget this will definitely do the trick. A couple sips in and it tastes better and better, then it tastes bomb! A great wine on a gloomy day, feeling toasty already and not even finished with my first small glass. If you don't have a partner to cuddle with get a Port you will feel the love with its toasty warm hug embracing your body.

Cheers!
-Shawntelle