A good dessert Port wine is one that is rich, luscious, and full of flavor. It should have a good balance between sweetness and acidity, and it should be able to stand up to the rich flavors of chocolate and other desserts.
One of my personal favorite dessert Ports is Fonseca BIN 27. This Port is a blend of several grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão. It is aged in oak barrels for about four years, which gives it a smooth and velvety texture.
When it comes to dessert Ports, it's all about finding the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. Fonseca BIN 27 achieves this balance beautifully. It has a bright, fruit-forward character with notes of blackcurrant and blackberries. These juicy flavors complement the sweetness of chocolate and other desserts, creating a harmonious pairing.
One of the things I love about Fonseca BIN 27 is its versatility. It can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert wine, or it can be paired with a wide range of chocolate desserts. Whether you're indulging in a rich chocolate cake, a creamy chocolate mousse, or a decadent chocolate truffle, Fonseca BIN 27 will enhance the flavors and take your dessert experience to the next level.
Another great thing about dessert Ports is that they can age beautifully. If you have the patience, you can cellar a bottle of Fonseca BIN 27 for several years and watch as it develops more complex flavors and aromas. The fruitiness may mellow out and give way to more earthy and nutty notes, making it an even more intriguing dessert wine.
In addition to Fonseca BIN 27, there are many other excellent dessert Ports to explore. Some other notable options include Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Old Tawny Port, Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port, and Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port. Each of these Ports has its own unique characteristics and can offer a delightful pairing with chocolate desserts.
When it comes to serving dessert Ports, it's best to serve them slightly chilled, around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps to balance the sweetness and acidity and allows the flavors to shine. You can use small, tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.
A good dessert Port wine should be rich, luscious, and well-balanced. Fonseca BIN 27 is a fantastic choice, with its bright, fruit-forward flavors and smooth texture. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with chocolate desserts, it is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more. Cheers to the delightful combination of chocolate and Port!