Ruby Port is one of the most beloved and iconic styles of fortified wine from Portugal, known for its rich color, bold flavor, and historical significance. For centuries, Ruby Port has been a favorite for many wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. In this article, we’ll explore Ruby Port in detail, discussing the best Ruby Port brands, its flavor profile, ideal food pairings, and the calorie content, giving you everything you need to know about this exceptional wine.
Ruby Port Wine Brands
Ruby Port is a variety of Port wine that is made using a unique method of production that involves fermenting the wine with the skins of the grapes for a short period of time, which gives it its deep ruby-red color and vibrant, fresh flavor. Some of the world’s most prestigious Port houses produce Ruby Port, and understanding the key brands can make your choice much easier. Here are some of the most notable Ruby Port brands that have earned their place in the world of fine wines.
1. Graham’s
One of the most renowned names in the world of Port, Graham’s is known for producing rich and full-bodied Ruby Ports. The Graham’s Six Grapes Ruby Port, in particular, is a great choice for those looking to experience a balanced, fruity, and slightly spicy profile. This wine is made from a blend of hand-picked grapes from the Douro Valley, and its unique aging process in oak barrels provides a smooth, luxurious finish.
2. Taylor’s
Another highly regarded producer, Taylor’s is often considered the benchmark for Port wines. The Taylor’s Ruby Port offers a delightful balance of fruity richness and oak aging, with notes of ripe cherries, red berries, and subtle hints of spice. This Port is perfect for those who enjoy a structured wine with layers of complexity.
3. Dow’s
Dow’s has been producing exceptional Ports since 1798, and their Ruby Port wines are no exception. The Dow’s Fine Ruby Port is a deliciously rich, full-bodied wine, with flavors of dark fruits like plums and blackberries, combined with hints of chocolate and spice. This Ruby Port is a fantastic option for both newcomers and experienced Port drinkers.
4. Fonseca
Fonseca’s Ruby Port is well-known for its intense fruity character and smooth mouthfeel. It’s a great representation of the classic style of Ruby Port, with vibrant notes of dark cherries, strawberries, and a touch of oak. Fonseca’s long history and consistent quality make this a top choice among Ruby Port lovers.
5. Sandeman
Sandeman’s Ruby Port offers a unique blend of deep fruit flavors and soft tannins. Sandeman’s Ports are renowned for their smooth textures and well-balanced profiles. Their Fine Ruby Port is an excellent introduction to the world of Port, with flavors of ripe plum, blackcurrant, and a slightly peppery finish that appeals to many palates.
6. Warre’s
One of the oldest Port houses, Warre’s has been producing fine Ruby Ports for generations. Their Warre’s Warrior Fine Ruby Port is a rich and aromatic wine that combines dark fruit flavors with hints of chocolate and spice. It’s a great choice for those seeking a smooth, easy-drinking Ruby Port.
7. Churchill’s
Churchill’s is known for crafting boutique Ports, and their Churchill’s Fine Ruby Port stands out for its rich and expressive flavor profile. With concentrated fruit flavors like black cherry, raspberry, and plum, this Ruby Port is a great example of a modern take on the traditional style, with balance and finesse.
Ruby Port Taste
Ruby Port is celebrated for its youthful, fresh character, which makes it stand out from other types of Port wines like Tawny or Vintage. The taste of Ruby Port is rich and intense, marked by a variety of fruity flavors and a relatively short aging process that preserves the wine’s fresh and vibrant profile. Here’s what you can expect when tasting Ruby Port:
1. Fruity Flavors
The primary characteristic of Ruby Port is its fruit-forward nature. Common flavors include:
- Red Berries: Expect to taste a burst of red fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, and cherries. These fruits give Ruby Port its bright, juicy, and fresh flavor profile.
- Dark Fruits: Many Ruby Ports also feature notes of darker fruits like blackberries, plums, and blackcurrants, which add depth and richness to the wine.
- Citrus: Some Ruby Ports exhibit hints of citrus fruits like oranges or lemons, adding a slight tangy finish to the wine.
2. Spices
While the main attraction of Ruby Port is its fruitiness, many versions also have subtle spicy undertones. These might include:
- Cinnamon and Cloves: These spice notes often emerge from the aging process, adding a warm and aromatic quality to the wine.
- Pepper and Nutmeg: A dash of pepper or nutmeg can lend complexity, contributing to a dry, slightly peppery finish.
3. Sweetness
Ruby Port is typically sweet, though the level of sweetness can vary slightly between brands and expressions. The sweetness of Ruby Port comes from the residual sugar left after fermentation is halted by the addition of grape spirits. This results in a luscious and rich mouthfeel that balances the acidity and fruitiness.
4. Tannins and Texture
Ruby Port generally has soft tannins, especially when compared to other types of Port like Vintage Port. The tannins are not overwhelming, allowing the fruity flavors to shine. The texture of Ruby Port is smooth and velvety, making it an enjoyable wine to sip on its own or paired with food.
5. Finish
The finish of Ruby Port is typically medium in length. While not as long-lasting as that of a Tawny or Vintage Port, it still leaves behind a pleasant fruity and slightly spicy aftertaste.
Ruby Port Pairing
Ruby Port is a versatile wine that can pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, whether sweet or savory. Its rich, fruit-forward profile and slight sweetness make it ideal for a range of food pairings. Let’s explore the best food pairings with Ruby Port.
1. Cheese
Port and cheese are a classic combination, and Ruby Port’s fruity flavors pair excellently with many types of cheese.
- Blue Cheese: The bold, tangy flavors of blue cheese, such as Roquefort or Stilton, complement the sweetness of Ruby Port, creating a delightful contrast.
- Aged Cheddar: The sharpness of aged cheddar pairs beautifully with the rich and fruity character of Ruby Port.
- Gouda and Brie: The creamy and nutty flavors of Gouda and Brie enhance the smooth, velvety texture of Ruby Port.
2. Chocolate and Desserts
Ruby Port is often paired with chocolate and sweet treats because of its rich, fruity profile and natural sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate: The richness of dark chocolate enhances the dark fruit flavors of Ruby Port, making this an indulgent pairing.
- Fruit-based Desserts: Think tarts, berry-based pies, and even cheesecake. The fresh, fruity notes of Ruby Port are a perfect match for fruity desserts.
- Chocolate Mousse or Brownies: These rich, chocolatey desserts bring out the sweet, velvety texture of Ruby Port.
3. Nuts
Nuts can be a fantastic pairing with Ruby Port, especially salted or roasted varieties.
- Almonds: The subtle sweetness of almonds pairs wonderfully with the fruity and smooth characteristics of Ruby Port.
- Walnuts and Pecans: The slight bitterness of these nuts complements the wine’s sweetness, creating a harmonious balance.
4. Grilled Meats
Although not as traditional, Ruby Port can also work surprisingly well with grilled meats, especially those that have a touch of sweetness, like barbecued dishes.
- Grilled Steak: The rich, smoky flavors of a well-grilled steak can be balanced by the fruity and slightly spicy qualities of Ruby Port.
- BBQ Ribs: The tangy and sweet sauce of BBQ ribs finds a natural partner in Ruby Port, with the wine’s fruitiness matching the sauce’s flavors.
5. Spicy Dishes
The slight peppery finish of Ruby Port allows it to pair well with dishes that have a bit of spice.
- Spicy Sausages or Chorizo: The robust flavors of these spicy meats pair wonderfully with the smooth, sweet profile of Ruby Port.
- Indian Curries: The fruity sweetness of Ruby Port can help balance the heat from a spicy curry, especially those with rich, creamy sauces.
Ruby Port Calories
As with all fortified wines, Ruby Port is typically higher in alcohol and calories compared to regular table wines. The calorie count in Ruby Port comes from both the alcohol content and the residual sugar. On average, a 3.5-ounce (100 ml) serving of Ruby Port contains approximately 85–100 calories.
Here’s a breakdown of the calorie content for Ruby Port based on its alcohol and sugar content:
- Alcohol Content: Ruby Port typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 19-20%. The higher the alcohol content, the more calories it tends to have. Each gram of alcohol contributes about 7 calories.
- Sugar Content: The residual sugar in Ruby Port, which contributes to its sweetness, can also increase the calorie count. A sweeter Ruby Port might have slightly more sugar, contributing more calories.
Example:
A standard 750 ml bottle of Ruby Port contains around 650-750 calories, depending on the sweetness and alcohol content of the specific wine.
For those keeping track of their calorie intake, it’s important to note that Ruby Port, like other fortified wines, should be consumed in moderation due to its higher calorie content.
Conclusion
Ruby Port is a rich and flavorful wine that has been cherished for centuries. With its deep red color, fruity taste, and versatility in food pairings, it’s no wonder that Ruby Port remains a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide. From the best brands to its unique taste and ideal pairings, Ruby Port offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or new to the world of Port, Ruby Port is a delightful wine to explore, offering both complexity and approachability in every glass.
Enjoy it with a cheese platter, a piece of dark chocolate, or a perfectly grilled steak—Ruby Port will enhance any occasion with its bold character and refined taste.
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