Q: What is the difference between Ruby Port and Tawny?

This is the most common question when choosing. Porto Ruby is a younger wine, aged briefly in large vats, which allows it to retain an intense red color and a fresh, fruity flavor (cherries, berries). It is ideal with chocolate. In turn, Porto Tawny ages for a long time in smaller barrels, which allows contact with air. Thanks to this it changes color to amber (hence the name) and acquires complex notes of nuts, caramel, coffee and dried fruits.

Question 1

What is the difference between Ruby Port and Tawny?

Accepted Answer

This is the most common question when choosing. Porto Ruby is a younger wine, aged briefly in large vats, which allows it to retain an intense red color and a fresh, fruity flavor (cherries, berries). It is ideal with chocolate. In turn, Porto Tawny ages for a long time in smaller barrels, which allows contact with air. Thanks to this it changes color to amber (hence the name) and acquires complex notes of nuts, caramel, coffee and dried fruits.

Question 2

At what temperature to serve Port wine and what to pair it with?

Accepted Answer

Contrary to myths, Porto should not be served "at room temperature" if the room is warm.
White Porto: Serve well chilled (6-10°C), pairs excellently with olives and roasted almonds.
Porto Tawny: Best slightly chilled (12-16°C), ideal for nutty desserts and creme brulee.
Porto Ruby/LBV: Serve at 16-18°C. It is a classic companion to blue cheeses (e.g. Stilton) and dark chocolate.

Question 3

How long can opened Port wine be stored?

Accepted Answer

Thanks to the addition of alcohol (brandy), Port retains its freshness after opening longer than ordinary wine, but not forever.
Ruby and LBV: It is worth drinking within 3–4 weeks.
Tawny: It is more resistant to oxidation, so in the refrigerator it can last even 2–3 months.
Vintage (Vintage): It's the exception – after decanting it's best to drink it within 24-48 hours, as with classic aged wine.