Port Wine Is Making a Sweet Comeback With Millennials

If you thought port wine was reserved for stuffy five-course meals or the IRL Ron Burgundy-esque type, you're not alone! It's true that for years, port has had a bit of a less-than-cool reputation as an inaccessible or antiquated spirit. But ... port wine (and dessert wines in general) are making a comeback and gaining popularity among millennials, especially after some producers recently released their best vintage in years and even a hot pink rosé port.

Here's a quick boozy history lesson: Port is a fortified red wine produced exclusively in Portugal's Douro Valley. The origins of port go way back to the 18th century, when basically a bunch of thirsty English sailors needed to find a way to preserve their table wine during transport by fortifying it with... you guessed it... more alcohol! Since these Englishmen were working with wine producers based in Portugal's Duoro Valley at the time, this fortified red wine became a regionally recognized spirit we now call ... port.

Tasting notes: Most port wine is sweet and red, often served with (or as) dessert, though white and tawny ports also exist. It's true that most Port is rich, syrupy, fruity, and deep-red, though some more nuanced varieties (especially aged tawny port) make for a yummy digestif or palate cleanser. Due to its juicy flavor, port also makes a really nice addition to cocktails (pretty port float anyone?) Plus, did we mention that port usually has about a 20% ABV?

Now that you're basically a port connoisseur, here are six bottles you should keep in your liquor cabinet to warm you up on a chilly night or sip after a big meal. You'll also definitely impress the in-laws if you whip out a bottle of this stuff.