The lighter side of fortified wine

If the port in your glass has always been red, it’s time to lighten up with a white version of this fortified wine. Though less common than its famed red cousin, authentic white port also hails from Portugal’s Duoro region and is made in a similar manner: fortified with brandy to halt fermentation when the ideal sugar level is reached. Of the 50 or so permitted grapes in a white port blend, rabigato, malvasia fino and viosinho are the most common. While these grape varietals are all white, red grapes can be used, too; the skins are removed so color does not bleed into the wine. White port is aged no more than 18 months and is usually stored in stainless steel or cement tanks. This makes it generally less complex than red port, and with a touch less alcohol, usually between 18 to 20 percent.

Port is typically considered a digestif, but like sherry, it makes for a fabulous aperitif, especially barrel-aged secco often labeled “light dry.” This style is not too sweet and offers an engaging nuttiness and complexity. Pair it with fruit, olives or nuts before settling in for a big meal. Like any other wine, white port can also be used for mixing. In fact, the Portuguese drink port and tonics at nightclubs, the beach and anywhere else fun is to be had. That’s reason enough to join the party.

BUY IT
Presidential White Port
It’s full-bodied yet not crazy-sweet, holding tastes of vanilla, plums and a hint of almond.
$15. The Wine and Cheese Place, various locations.

Ramos Pinto Lágrima White Port
Cheer up with this sweet port’s sunny notes of white flowers, honeysuckle and fresh pear.
$22. Starrs, 1135 S. Big Bend Blvd., Richmond Heights, 314.781.2345 

MIX IT
White port and tonic

1 serving

3 or 4 fresh mint leaves
3 oz. white port
3 oz. tonic water or more to taste
Lemon wheel for garnish

Place the mint leaves in a Collins glass and muddle. Fill the glass with ice. Add the port, top with the tonic water and garnish with the lemon wheel.