There’s something beautifully comforting about enjoying a sweet glass of Port in winter. The fire is crackling, Christmas decorations are up, and a glass of Port completes the scene; it’s a genuine British tradition.
Our nation’s love of Port dates back to the 17th century, when British merchants helped establish many of the leading Port houses. Some remain British-owned today, maintaining the enduring connection.
Although Port-style wines are now produced worldwide, including in Australia, France, and the USA, EU regulations specify that only fortified wine made in Portugal’s Douro Valley can be officially labelled as Port. Wines made elsewhere must be described as fortified wines instead.
About Port
Port is richer, sweeter, and more intense than most table wines, which is why it is typically served in smaller quantities. Usually containing between 19% and 22% alcohol, it has a deeper flavour profile than standard wines (usually 12–14%).
Typical aromas and flavours include raspberry, blackberry, caramel, cinnamon, and chocolate, which give Port its distinctive warmth and depth.
Types of Port
There are various styles of Port, each providing a distinct taste and character.
- Ruby Port – youthful, fruity, and full-bodied.
- Tawny Port – aged in oak barrels for a smooth, nutty flavour with caramel notes.
- Vintage Port – made from the best grapes of a single harvest and aged in the bottle, prized for its complexity.
- White Port – produced from white grapes and typically served chilled.
While all styles benefit from the right serving temperature and glass shape, a well-designed Port glass allows its aromas and flavours to shine.
Why the Right Glass Matters
You can, of course, serve Port in a standard wine glass, but to appreciate its full character, the appropriate glass makes all the difference.
A proper Port glass is slightly smaller than a regular wine glass and has a narrow rim to concentrate the rich aromas while directing the wine to the back of the palate. This enhances the sweetness, balance, and complexity that define a great Port.
The Best Glass for Port
At Wineware, we stock a wide selection of fortified wine glasses, designed explicitly for Port, Sherry, Madeira, and other fortified wines.
Our most popular choice is the Schott Zwiesel Official Port Glass, created by award-winning Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira. His design perfectly balances form and function, enhancing both aroma and flavour for a truly authentic Port-drinking experience.
Made from Tritan crystal, these glasses are dishwasher-safe, brilliantly clear, and exceptionally durable, ideal for admiring Port’s rich ruby or golden hues.
If you’re looking for the perfect glass for Port, the Schott Zwiesel Official Port Glass is an excellent choice.
How to Serve Port
To bring out the best in your Port:
- Temperature: Serve red Ports slightly below room temperature, around 16–18°C, and white Ports chilled to 10–12°C.
- Decanting: Vintage Ports should be decanted to remove sediment and to allow the wine to breathe before serving.
- Storage: Store bottles on their side in a cool, dark, and consistent-temperature environment.
Explore our full range of Fortified Wine Glasses, including glassware for Port, Sherry, Madeira and more.
