Are you, like us, enthusiastic about port wine and want to delve further into this drink after reading our general port guide? Then you've come to the right place! In our upcoming blogs, we will go deeper into the different types of port. In our previous porto blog, we already learned more about Ruby port. Today, we are going to talk about another important variety: Tawny port.
(Source photo: Graham's Port Facebook page)
Tawny port
Tawny port is distinguished from other types of port by its lighter orange-brown colour - hence the term 'Tawny'. This is because Tawny port is exposed to oxygen during the maturation process in wooden barrels (aka "pipas"), resulting in oxidation and a softer, more aged flavour. Ageing can vary from a few years to several decades, depending on the desired result.
The age listed on a bottle of Tawny port indicates the average number of years the wine has matured in barrels, giving an indication of its complexity and flavour profile.
What does Tawny port taste like?
Tawny port is often characterised by notes of caramel, dried fruits such as sultanas and figs, and subtle hints of nuts and spices. So when tasting a Tawny Port, you can expect a seductive mix of sweet, fruity and spicy notes.
What is the difference between Ruby port and Tawny port?
You can recognise the differences between a good Ruby port and a tasty Tawny port by the following pillars:
Maturation process: A Ruby port usually matured for only a few years, while a Tawny port has matured for longer
Colour: A Ruby port has an unmistakable deep dark, ruby red colour. A Tawny port can be recognised by its typical amber colour.
Flavour profile: A Ruby port has a lively, fruity flavour, with notes of red berries, cherries and sometimes even hints of chocolate. Tawny port, on the other hand, has a more complex flavour profile, with notes of dried fruit, nuts, caramel and spices .
In other words, with a Ruby porto you get a fresh and fruity wine with a firm structure, while with a Tawny you opt for a softer texture and a more aged taste.
Popularity and consumption
Tawny port is loved worldwide for its unique flavour profile and versatility of consumption. It can be enjoyed in different ways: chilled as an aperitif or served at room temperature, and it is also an excellent choice to pair with a wide range of dishes. Due to its long ageing process and oxidative character, Tawny port can be kept for many years and often develops even more complexity as it ages, making it a popular choice for collectors and lovers of aged wines. Moreover, both premium and affordable options are available, making Tawny port accessible to all wine lovers.
Well-known brands
In our Ruby Port blog, we have already briefly discussed one of the prominent names in the world of Port - Graham's. When it comes to Tawny Port, this brand also has a lot to offer. The price range varies widely; are you simply curious about the taste of a Tawny Port or want to get it for your next cheese night at home? Then Graham's Tawny Reserve or Graham's 20-year Tawny are a good option. Are you a lover and willing to spend a bit more on port? Then we recommend the Graham's 40 year Tawny or Graham's 30 year Tawny, among others.
What to eat with Tawny port?
If you've made it this far in reading, it's probably become clear to you that Tawny port has a rich, complex flavour. This makes it a versatile wine that goes well with different types of food.
- Hard cheeses: Hard cheeses such as Cheddar, Gouda and Manchego are an excellent choice because of their salty and nutty flavours, which contrast nicely with the sweetness of the Tawny Port. The saltiness of the cheese can also enhance the flavour of the wine and bring out its fruity notes.
- Dark chocolate: Chocolate is another popular choice to pair with Tawny Port, especially dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.
- Dishes with a spicy/sweet flavour: In addition, dishes with a slightly spicy or sweet flavour can go well with Tawny Port, such as roasted meat with a fruity sauce or caramelised onions.
- Cigars: And finally, for cigar lovers, a Tawny Port can blend perfectly with mild to medium-bodied cigars.
A cocktail recipe with Tawny port: Tawny Port Flip
Ingredients
- 60 ml Tawny Port
- 30 ml bourbon
- 15 ml maple syrup
- 1 egg
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Add the Tawny port, bourbon, maple syrup and the egg to a cocktail shaker without ice.
- Shake dry (shake without ice) to mix the egg well.
- Then add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously.
- Pour the contents into a chilled cocktail glass
- Sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg for the finishing touch.
Marketing • Blogger
As a creative jack-of-all-trades in the marketing world, I also bring that imaginative flair to my drink choices. Whether on a night out, sunny vacation or social gathering with girlfriends, I'm always in my element with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Cocktails have stolen my heart because of the endless possibilities to experiment and explore. My favorite cocktail of the moment is the "Lazy Red Cheeks"! A delicious cocktail using vodka as a base. I love vodka because it mixes perfectly with non-alcoholic drinks. My favorite spirit? Rum!
