Port is a fortified wine produced in many regions
around the world but originates from from the Douro valley in northern
Portugal. The name comes from Oporto, a city on the coast where the
river Douro forms. Port is made in different styles and qualities
like Madeira and Sherry. Port wine is mostly red, however, a small
amount of white Port is produced from a dry style to very sweet style.
Ruby is the least expensive Port style with a brilliant
red color and is vigorous and youthful in character with a sweet,
ripe, fruity flavor. Another style called Tawny Port takes its name
after being aged in wooden casks. Inexpensive Tawny Ports may be colored
or blended with lighter colored wines. Ruby and Tawny Ports are blended
with different vintages. Producers may at times declare Port to be
a vintage year and produce wine only from that year.
Classic production areas: Douro, Portugal.
