When you think of port, you probably immediately picture ruby port. And yes, that is what most varieties look like. But did you know that there is also a white variety? White port definitely deserves some attention too. So let's take a closer look at this lesser-known but certainly remarkable variety.
(Source photo: Graham's Port Facebook page)
White port
White port is a type of fortified wine that originates from Portugal. It is made from white grapes, such as Malvasia Fina, Viosinho, Gouveio and Arinto. Like other types of port wine, white port is fortified with a neutral alcohol, usually brandy, to increase the alcohol content and enhance the flavour. Compared to red port, white port is usually matured for a shorter period of time, giving it a fresher and fruitier taste, and its aroma is usually reminiscent of exotic fruits.
White port can be further divided into different styles, ranging from dry to sweet. Dry white port has a lighter and more refreshing taste, while sweet white port has a richer and fuller taste, often with notes of exotic fruit, nuts and honey.
What does white port taste like?
This port has a wide range of flavour profiles, depending on the style and ageing process.
Dry white port
This type of port often has a light and fresh taste with notes of citrus fruits such as lemon and grapefruit, along with floral aromas such as orange blossom, for example.
Medium-dry white port
This style has slightly more body and sweetness than dry white port, with notes of ripe fruit such as peach, apricot and pear. It often has balanced acidity and a silky texture.
Sweet white port
Sweet white port is rich and luscious in flavour, with prominent notes of dried fruits such as sultanas, figs and dates. It can also contain notes of honey, caramel and vanilla, along with a long, lingering finish.
What is the difference between white port and red port?
Grape varieties
Red port is mainly made from red grapes, such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. White port, on the other hand, is made from only white grape varieties, such as Malvasia Fina, Gouveio, Viosinho,...
Production method
The production method for red and white port is similar up to the point of fermentation. For red port, the grapes are fermented together with their skins. For white port, the grapes are pressed and fermentation takes place without the skins.
Maturation process
In general, white port wines are aged for a shorter period of time than red port wines. White port is usually aged for a few years, while red port is often aged for much longer, sometimes even decades.
Flavour profile
The shorter ageing time of white port generally results in a fresher and fruitier flavour, while red port wines develop more complex and deeper flavour profiles the longer they are aged.
Serving style
White port is often served chilled, sometimes even with ice, as its refreshing and fruity flavours come into their own at lower temperatures. Red port, on the other hand, is usually served at room temperature or slightly chilled, as its rich and complex flavours come out best at these temperatures.
Popularity and consumption
Although red port was dominant for a long time, white pot wines are slowly gaining popularity and are increasingly appreciated for their fresh and fruity flavours. This port can be consumed in different ways, depending on the drinker's preferences. It is often served as an aperitif, chilled or with ice, possibly with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint as garnish.
Our recommendations
Graham's Blend No.5 White
Graham's Blend No.5 White is a Portuguese white port wine known for its rich flavour profile with notes of ripe fruit, nuts and a hint of honey. This white port has an alcohol content of 19% and can basically be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or with desserts, yet this blend was created primarily to mix with a tonic. With its summery look and "mixable" character for a Porto-Tonic, this bottle is highly recommended for the warmer months.
Graham's Fine White
Graham's Fine White has a fresh and fruity flavour profile with notes of peach, apricot and citrus, and has a slightly sweet finish. This port is perfect to serve chilled as an aperitif or with light appetisers.
Graham's Extra Dry White
Finally, we recommend the Graham's Extra Dry White. This variety is very different from the previously discussed ports. Unlike the sweeter white ports, this port has a refreshing, crisp character (note: similar to the crispness you would experience when biting into a fresh piece of fruit, like an apple for example). It offers notes of green apples, lemons and almonds.
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!
