Port

With the cooler weather here, a small glass of Port seems enticing. This famous fortified wine from northern Portugal has brandy added to it during fermentation, increasing the alcohol to around 20%. There are several distinctions in port. First, most Port is blended and not from a single year. Secondly, some Port is wood-aged while others are bottle aged. Wood-aged Port spends the majority of its life in barrel taking on woody characteristics. They tend to be more elegant and round. Bottle-aged Port spends little time in barrel and is meant for the long haul in bottle. These guys are much bigger and sturdier. With the exception of white Port, both styles are sweet, unctuous and pack quite a punch, so sip sparingly. Enjoy!