January 27 is International Port Wine Day. The Wine Origin Research Center established this holiday in 2012 to protect its historical heritage. The center was founded in 2005 with the support of the winemaking regions of Champagne in France and Porto in Portugal. Thanks to this organization, we have a reason to remember, drink, and celebrate port wine today.
The Origins of Port Wine
Port wine (from German Portwein, original Portuguese name vinho do Porto—“wine from the city of Porto”) is a Portuguese sweet fortified wine classified as a “liqueur wine.” It is most commonly made from dark yellow and red grape varieties, though rosé and white varieties are also used. The alcohol content ranges from 17.5% to 21.0%.
According to international trade and trademark law, authentic port wine comes only from a strictly defined region—the Douro Valley in northern Portugal. The wine takes its name from the city of Porto, through which it was historically exported by sea to the rest of the world.
The earliest evidence of winemaking in the Douro Valley dates back to the Bronze Age. Archaeologists have discovered grape seeds and vines from that time. During the Roman colonization, viticulture expanded significantly. Written records from the 7th and 8th centuries, including sacred texts and the Visigothic Code, mention grape cultivation in this region.
On International Port Wine Day, the Wine Origin Research Center organizes contests, inviting consumers to photograph their favorite port wine labels and submit them to the center’s website or email. Wine enthusiasts can also post images on their social media profiles, tagging both themselves and the center. A randomly selected winner receives valuable prizes.
Meanwhile, in Porto, Portugal, where many famous port wine producers are located, visitor centers offer gifts and prizes, while various establishments across the city host port wine tastings. Restaurants and retailers also serve port wine with meals in honor of the occasion.
For those who prefer to celebrate International Port Wine Day at home, the best choice is selecting a fine port wine to enjoy in the company of friends.
How to Enjoy Port Wine
Dry white port wine, especially of the LBV class and higher, can be served chilled (sometimes with a slice of lemon) as an aperitif. Most other varieties, particularly red port, are typically enjoyed as a dessert wine, paired with cheese, or as a digestif.
Port wine can be served in liqueur glasses. There are also special port wine glasses, which differ from liqueur glasses by having a shorter stem and a slightly narrower rim. These glasses are larger than standard liqueur glasses but should not exceed 220 ml in volume. Traditional Portuguese port wine glasses, made of heavy cut-colored glass, are still widely available in tableware shops across Portugal.
Choose your favorite brand of port wine and celebrate International Port Wine Day in good company and with a great mood!