When you think of February, thoughts of warm hearts and sweet treats come to mind—perfect for cuddling up with a glass of something special! And what better choice than Port wine? We must highlight Kopke, the oldest Port wine house in the world, established way back in 1636. It all started with Nicolau Kopkë, a member of the German Hanseatic League who made his way to Portugal and began exporting delicious Port to Northern Europe. Talk about a pioneer!
So, what exactly is Port? It’s a delightful fortified dessert wine, primarily coming from the beautiful Douro Valley in northwestern Portugal. While most of us think of Port as a rich red, there are also fabulous white varieties that deserve a spot on your table.
The process is fascinating: grapes are sent from inland vineyards to the bustling coastal cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Once there, they’re crushed in shallow granite vessels, traditionally by foot stomping or with modern machinery. After a brief fermentation, a distilled grape spirit is added to stop the yeast in its tracks, preserving the natural sugars and giving Port its sweet, boozy character.
Now, let’s talk about why Port is perfect for February. Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening with a glass of this luscious wine. It’s the ultimate pairing for all those chocolate delights we crave around Valentine's Day! Whether it’s rich chocolate desserts or decadent stewed fruits, Port elevates the experience to a whole new level of deliciousness.
So, make your February extra special and swing by the Bottle Shop to grab some remarkable bottles. Nothing beats sharing a cozy moment with loved ones and a glass of Port by a warm fire. Cheers to love and sweet sips!