It's been popular since the late 1600s. There are generally four types of port wines. Ruby port is the most common. It is aged in bulk for two to three years and often comes from one or more vintages. It's very red and fruity.
Tawny port is aged in wood and is a lighter style.
Some aged tawny ports are like a fine sherry with nutlike aromas and flavors. A vintage port is from a particular year that has special qualities. White port has less alcohol, is often golden in color and has a nutty citrus tang. This is a delicious drink. Laurel Ridge Finn Hill Vineyard nonvintage Oregon pinot noir - Cedar aromas, a touch of spice, lovely flavors with excellent balance of alcohol and berry fruit.