Made by Alvaro van Zeller, a 15th-generation winemaker from one of the Douro Valley’s most renowned families, whose lineage dates back to 1715 and once included ownership of the iconic Quinta do Noval, this rosé port reflects both heritage and innovation.
Rosé port itself is a relatively recent addition to the Douro, only introduced in 2008. Rosé Port, also known as Pink Port, is made from traditional red Douro grape varieties but is produced in a style similar to rosé wines, involving only brief skin contact to achieve its pink color. Like all Ports, fermentation is stopped early by adding aguardente, in essence the Portuguese equivalent of brandy, which kills the yeast, preserves residual sugar for sweetness and raises the alcohol content to around 19–20% ABV
Served cold over ice, it’s a great choice for summer. At 19.5% ABV, it’s sweet and exceptionally smooth with a rounded feel in the mouth. The definite sweetness, balanced by a gentle acidity that stops it from becoming cloying. Flavours of almond, caramel and honey come through clearly, followed by a long, subtly herby finish.
It plays with expectations, recognisably port in flavour but with a much lighter, more refreshing appearance. Well-suited to chilled sipping or use in cocktails.
Priced at £12.99 for a 500ml bottle, currently on offer for £10.99 at the time of writing from Laithwaites.
