Port Wine: An introduction

written by YVONNE FORD

OWNER, RED HEIFER WINERY

Many people believe Port wines are reserved for after dinner, but there are several reasons to enjoy them during your next meal.

Port wines have a rich flavor and a higher alcohol content by volume created by careful blending with another type of spirit. These traits lend themselves beautifully to pairing a small, 3-ounce glass with salty cheeses, dark chocolate and other rich desserts.

There are several types of Port wines, including ruby, white and aged tawny. The formal name, Port, is used exclusively for wines produced in Portugal. Throughout other parts of the world, this style of wine is called fortified wine. Several local wineries offer them, including Mazzaroth Vineyard in Middletown, Md.; Big Cork Vineyards in Rohrersville; and Red Heifer Winery in Smithsburg.

Garry Cohen of Mazzaroth Vineyard admires Portugal and wanted to extend his portfolio of the wines he produces by creating a ruby Port. He blended 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and tannat grapes. The wine boasts an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 19.2% with residual sugars – the amount of sugar remaining after fermentation ends – at 6.5% and produces a nice mouth feel. Those interested in trying Mazzaroth’s Port should visit the website at www.mazzarothvineyard.com to find where the products are available.

Dave Collins of Big Cork Vineyards creates a Port with black raspberries called Black Cap. He says black raspberries have a strong heritage in Washington County, having been farmed in the area for 150 years. Black Cap is made from the half-acre of raspberries growing on the Big Cork property. The raspberries are fermented until 10% natural sugar remains and then aged in French oak wine barrels for nine months before bottling. The ABV is 18%. For information, visit the website at www.bigcorkvineyards.com.

Kevin Ford of Red Heifer Winery makes his tawny-style Port, called Evening Sky, from late-harvested 2015 Chambourcin grapes after an extended barrel aging. With an ABV of 18%, and 10% residual sugars, the finished product reminds those tasting it of chocolate-covered cherries and Tootsie Rolls.

Don’t be afraid to pair Port wines throughout a meal. A fruity Port makes a lovely companion for a cheese board. An adventurous home chef can create a Port wine reduction sauce. Those with a sweet tooth can simply break up pieces of a dark chocolate bar and sip a glass of Port. As temperatures cool and you nestle in for autumn and winter, be sure to stock up on your favorite local winery’s Port wines!

Red Heifer Winery

301-824-5210

redheiferwinery.com

YVONNE FORD

OWNER, RED HEIFER WINERY