Profiling factors, flavour parameters of port wines
Authors: Kiselev Vladimir , Kiseleva Tatyana , Miller Yulia , Pomozova Valentina , Petropavlovskaya Alla 
Published: July 2024

In the multifaceted world of fortified sweet wines, port wines occupy a special place. Authentic Porto is a group of wines that is the hallmark of Portugal's unique wine region, which stretches along the picturesque valley of the Douro River. The name "Porto" regulated by European legislation can only be worn by wines made from grapes grown and vinified in this fertile land. It is worth mentioning that port wines are among the elite of the best dessert wines in the world, harmoniously complementing both dessert dishes and acting as an independent delicacy. The variety of port wines amazes the imagination of connoisseurs of this noble drink. They differ in color (white, pink, red, brown), aging time (multiple of 10 years) and degree of sweetness (from dry to sweet). Inexperienced port wine lovers often face a situation when they purchase wine that does not meet their expectations. This may be due, among other things, to the fact that there are wines on the market that imitate authentic Porto, but have nothing in common with it except the name. Here lies an important point: in the Russian Federation, wines are traditionally produced under the name "Port Wine", however, in terms of their parameters, style and taste, they differ significantly from their Portuguese counterparts. It is quite difficult for consumers to understand these nuances. These wines are of a national Russian character, and according to European legislation, they cannot be exported abroad because they do not comply with strict regulations established for authentic Porto, in particular, by geographical designation of origin. In this regard, grounds are required for the correct classification of this group of wines in order to avoid uncertainty in their places of sale and subsequent consumer disappointment due to the discrepancy between the desired and real flavor palette of the purchased port. An important factor influencing the taste and aroma of port wines is not only the grape variety used in its production, but also the place where it is grown, and the process of aging the wine. Aging plays a key role in the formation of a flavor bouquet of port wines. For this purpose, the wine is aged for a long period of time in bottles, tanks, and the best - oak barrels. At the same time, the finished wines acquire unique aromatic and taste parameters. The duration of aging can vary from several years to several decades, depending on the desired style and quality of the port. During the aging process in oak barrels, port wines undergo a complex biochemical process that forms the unique aromas and taste of the wine. Oak barrels also make their natural contribution to the bouquet of wine, adding delicate woody notes that give port wines depth and complexity. Thus, port wine is not just wine, it is a real art that combines the skill of winemakers, the natural characteristics of grapes, as well as the unique conditions of viticulture and winemaking. Its rich bouquet and complex taste make the wine a unique and inimitable drink that can satisfy the most refined taste. The purpose of this article is an in-depth acquaintance with the nuances of the flavor parameters of this unique wine, as well as revealing the differences between authentic Porto and Russian port wines.