​Fonseca Siroco White Port

 
..... from the Douro Valley, Portugal ........

White port is not terribly well  known in the UK so is super value for money.  It's not really white either, more of a pale amber or straw colour.

So, to the nitty gritty.  Fonseca Siroco White Port first introduced to the UK  in the 1950s,  is a blend of classic white Port grape varieties, predominantly Malvasia Fina, with smaller proportions of Gouveio, Viosinho, Rabigato and Arinto  grown on the cooler, higher vineyards of the beautiful Douro Valley. It gets its crisp dry finish because it is allowed to ferment longer than other Port styles  before it is fortified. Ageing in small oak vats gives Siroco its smoothness, blend of fruity flavours and delicate nuttiness.

• In Porto, the drink of choice is  Portônica, white port and tonic, instead of a G&T.  Why don't you give it a try?​
•  Though still sweet, white port made from white grapes is usually drier than the red version. It makes an excellent aperitif. 

Generally speaking, Port is enjoyed at the end of a meal. However, the  exception is white Port.  ​You can serve it chilled in a white wine glass or  pour it over ice then top up with tonic - around 100ml port to 150 ml tonic - garnished with a slice of lemon or orange and a sprig of mint.  Personally,  I like to add a stick of cinnamon to my glass, but however you choose to dress it up, it makes a refreshing  long drink.   If real decadence is what you're after, have it for pudding, with white chocolate covered strawberries..... mmm.  It's less decadent but also delicious if you accompany it with salted almonds or olives.

Once the bottle is open, dry white Port will keep for around two weeks or so in the fridge.  Sweet versions  last longer, for a couple of months or more, though are so tasty, they quite  possibly won't  last that long!

• White port can  be used as a substitute in lots of cocktails. Martini, for instance, the less port you use, the drier the martini.   A general measure would be to use one part port to five parts vodka or gin or mix it with equal parts of gin and Campari​

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With over 160 years experience, Mentzendorff is one of the United Kingdom’s longest-established wine importers.  

RSP: £17.00
Stockists: Secret Bottle Shop, thedrinkshop.com, Amazon, Hay Wines

About: Fonseca Siroco dry white port is a  balance of ripe fruit, delicate acidity and elegant notes of wood aging. Full and fruity on the palate, it has a lingering finish and an attractive, refreshing crispness. 
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​Disclaimer:  Mentzendorff kindly sent me a bottle of Fonseca Siroco White Port in return for an honest review.

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