Port – that enigmatic, deep, rich, luscious drink served at the end of a meal in a cosy dining room with the log fire crackling in the background. That moment can never be underestimated but Port goes way beyond this and the Portuguese drink it in a myriad of ways – especially when the sun rises high in the sky – and this is when White Port comes into its own.
The breathtaking Douro Valley in Northeast Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, has been producing one of the first truly global wines since the early 17th century: Port. It’s fascinating how it has maintained its popularity for so long, especially in a world that has changed so much, introducing new norms, wine regions, and styles.
Port’s enduring appeal lies in its constant evolution: innovation built on tradition. While Port shippers of yesteryears would still recognise a ‘quinta’ (farm) and the core winemaking process, advancements in vineyards, improved standards, and new winery technologies have created a truly sustainable and modern landscape. Producers have consistently adapted to the changing expectations of wine lovers, making Port a versatile, all-season drink perfect for many occasions.
During our Summer Sipping Series on our new YouTube channel, Tom and Oz show how chilling white Port and adding refreshing flavours from tonic water, lemon, and mint is a fantastic way to beat the summer heat. Graham’s Blend No. 5, created by the fifth generation of the company, offers a fresher, more fragrant style specifically for White Port & Tonic. This drink has become a global phenomenon, particularly with Portugal’s rising popularity as a holiday destination.
This simple, four-ingredient cocktail is a summer delight and there are endless variations of summery Port-based long drinks. Here are a few favourites from School of Port:
Herbal Lover
- 1 Measure of Graham’s Blend No5 White Port
- 1 Measure of FeverTree Mediterranean Tonic
- A few sprigs of rosemary & thyme
The Fruit Burst:
- 1 Measure of Cockburn’s Ruby Soho Port
- 1 Measure of FeverTree Blood Orange Soda
- Slices of orange
The Spice Lover:
- 1 Measure of Cockburn’s Tawny Eyes
- 1 Measure of FeverTree Ginger Ale
- 2 blueberries and 1 raspberry
If you’re feeling more adventurous, or consider yourself a mixology expert, you can find other recipes on the School of Port Cocktail Series on YouTube, presented by professional bartenders. Satisfaction is guaranteed!
School of Port is a non-profit educational initiative founded in 2020 by Symington Family Estates, a leading multigenerational, family-owned Port producer. Aiming to demystify the category for 21st-century wine lovers, their free website is a treasure trove of information, including infographics, interviews, Q&A’s, and two video courses, allowing consumers and professionals to learn at their own pace.
Head over to WineAlive’s YouTube Channel to see Oz & Tom prepare a classic White Port & Tonic in the Summer Cocktails episode of our Summer Sipping Series.
