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34 | OHCC LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2024 | Portuguese Port wine is a celebrated fortified wine from the Douro Valley, known for its rich flavors and wide range of styles. From the vibrant Ruby Port to the complex Tawny and the prestigious Vintage Port, each style offers unique characteristics that pair beautifully with various foods. Understanding these pairings can enhance your dining experience, whether you're savoring a dessert or enjoying a savory dish. Ruby Port is characterized by its deep red color and vibrant fruit flavors, such as cherry, raspberry, and plum. is youthful, fruity wine pairs well with bold, flavorful cheeses like Stilton or Roquefort. e wine's natural sweetness and robust character make it an excellent match for chocolate-based desserts and also complements berry-based desserts like raspberry tarts or mixed berry compote. Tawny Port is aged in wooden barrels, which imparts complex flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and caramel. is aging process gives Tawny Port a smooth, velvety texture and a golden-brown hue, that pairs well with nutty desserts such as pecan pie or almond tart. e wine's subtle sweetness and nutty undertones also enhance the flavors of crème brûlée or caramel flan. On the savory side, Tawny Port is a great companion for aged cheeses like Manchego or Comté and complements charcuterie boards with cured meats and nuts. Vintage Port is the pinnacle of Port wine, produced from the best grapes of a single vintage. is wine is rich, intense, and full- bodied, with concentrated flavors of dark fruits, spices, and chocolate which pairs wonderfully with strong cheeses, such as aged cheddar or blue cheese. It also pairs beautifully with rich chocolate desserts and fruitcake. White Port, made from white grape varieties, offers a refreshing alternative with its floral and citrus notes. It pairs well with salted nuts, olives, and lighter appetizers, making it an ideal choice for an aperitif. e acidity and subtle sweetness of White Port complement fruit-based desserts like apple tart or lemon sorbet, providing a refreshing finish to a meal. e diverse styles of Port wine offer a range of pairing possibilities, enriching both the wine and the food it accompanies. Whether enjoying a rich Vintage Port with bold cheeses or a Tawny Port with a sweet dessert, the combination of flavors creates a memorable culinary experience. OHCC residents can join the Wine Tasting Club for $15 per person per year. ~ Jody McDonough, jodyzm@gmail.com, (760) 653-8198 Wine Tasting Club