The Best Port Wine for Newbies

New to Port wine? Welcome.

Wine is intimidating. Port wine even more so — especially to the American consumer as many Americans didn’t grow up around it.

What exactly is Port wine?

Port wine is a fortified wine, which means that a spirit is added to it to stop fermentation in a process called fortification (hence ‘fortified’). This is why fortified wines are higher in alcohol content: about 20 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) versus average table wine which is about 13 percent ABV.

So, what’s the best Port wine for newbies?

If you’re looking for the best Port wine for beginners, read on.

I checked in with the experts at School of Port, an educational initiative from Symington Family Estates, to learn more.

The best entry-level Port wine for beginners is a reserve ruby.

Reserve rubies have “fruit-forward, succulent ripe berry and spicy flavors” that are almost guaranteed to please most palates.

Reserve rubies age a little longer than standard rubies so they are usually more finely textured (silkier) and therefore more balanced and pleasurable on the palate.

Where can you find reserve ruby Port?

Most wine stores will carry reserve rubies as it’s a popular style. Because of its popularity, most Port houses produce it so you’ll likely have a handful of brands to choose from when selecting a bottle.

How much does a bottle of reserve ruby Port cost?

Reserve ruby Ports range in price, although you can find decent ones for around $15.

Interested in learning more about Port wine? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned Port wine drinker, I invite you to subscribe to the newsletter below to join the venture to a new Port — we’re building one for the American dinner party:

Cheers,
Rebecca