Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port

Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port: A Refreshingly Dry Port Experience

For those who enjoy the rich sweetness of traditional Port but crave a drier style, the Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port offers a delightful alternative. Produced by Real Companhia Velha, Portugal's oldest wine company, this medium dry Port boasts a vibrant character, making it a versatile choice for sipping or enjoying with food.

Grape Varietals and Winemaking:

The Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port is a blend of indigenous white Portuguese grapes, primarily Malvasia Fina, Donzelinho Branco, Viosinho, and Gouveio. These grapes thrive in the sun-drenched vineyards of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional Port production.

Following traditional Port vinification methods, the grapes are gently pressed to extract their delicate juice. Fermentation occurs at controlled temperatures to preserve the grapes' fresh fruit character. Unlike Ruby or Tawny Ports, fermentation continues for a longer period, resulting in a drier style with less residual sugar. To fortify the wine and arrest fermentation, grape brandy is added. The Port then undergoes a brief ageing period in a combination of native oak and chestnut casks, which imparts subtle hints of spice and complexity.

Tasting Profile:

The Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port presents a beautiful clear, straw-yellow colour. On the nose, it explodes with a bouquet of rich floral aromas, reminiscent of honeysuckle and elderflower. Hints of molasses add a touch of sweetness that complements the floral character.

The first sip reveals a smooth and elegant palate, where the medium dryness takes centre stage. Honeyed notes mingle with flavours of hazelnut, white stone fruits like peach and apricot, and refreshing citrus hints. A touch of tropical pineapple adds an exotic layer to the flavour profile. The finish is crisp and lingering, leaving a pleasant and balanced aftertaste.

Food Pairing Recommendations:

The Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port's versatility makes it a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Here are some suggested food pairings to fully appreciate its unique character:

• Appetisers:  Enjoy a chilled glass of Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port as an aperitif before a meal. Its refreshing dryness and subtle sweetness pair beautifully with light appetisers like smoked salmon canapés, goat cheese with honey, or grilled vegetables with a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
• Seafood: The wine's crisp acidity and subtle sweetness complement the delicate flavours of seafood dishes. Try it with grilled prawns, pan-seared scallops, or steamed mussels. For a richer pairing, consider creamy seafood pasta dishes or lobster bisque.
• Salads: The Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port elevates the flavours of a fresh summer salad. Its dryness cuts through creamy dressings, while the fruit notes enhance the salad's ingredients. Pair it with a goat cheese and walnut salad, a classic Nicoise salad, or a Thai chicken salad.
• Spicy Food: The sweetness of the Port helps tame the heat of spicy dishes. Enjoy it with curries, Thai stir-fries, or Mexican cuisine.
• Cheese:  Explore the contrasting yet complementary flavours between the Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port and a selection of cheeses. Opt for creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or try it with a blue cheese like Stilton for a bolder pairing.
• Desserts: While not as sweet as traditional Port styles, the Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port can still be enjoyed with certain desserts. It pairs well with fruit tarts, crème brûlée, or light cheesecakes. Its refreshing character also complements a platter of fresh fruits and cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

For the optimal drinking experience, serve the Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C (50-54°F). This temperature range accentuates the wine's refreshing acidity and fruit notes.

Conclusion:

The Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port offers a delightful departure from the typical sweetness of Port. Its vibrant fruit character, balanced dryness, and subtle complexity make it an excellent choice for sipping on its own or enjoying with a variety of culinary delights. So, next time you're seeking a refreshing and intriguing white Port experience, reach for a bottle of Royal Oporto Medium Dry Port.