Ahoy, wine enthusiasts!

Today I’d like to tell you  a fascinating story that spans the seas, from the rugged shores of Portugal to the posh parlours of English gentlemen.

This story began in the 17th century amidst a squabble between the French and the English, where a forbidden fruit became the toast of the town – enter, port wine!

Legend had it that when the French premier Colbert decided to play customs games with the English, raising taxes on their beloved Bordeaux, the English retaliated in a way only they could – by banning all French wines. But fear not, dear reader, for where there's a thirst, there's a solution!

Enter the intrepid English merchants, with their keen eye for a fine drop and a nose for adventure. Docking their ships in the bustling port of Porto, Portugal, they set their sights on the barrels of fortified goodness known as port wine. These seafaring scallywags wasted no time in loading their holds with the sweet nectar, destined for the lips of eager Englishmen across the channel.



But what made port wine so special, you might ask? Well, aside from its rich flavour and intoxicating aroma, it had a secret weapon – fortification! You see, these Portuguese vintners were no strangers to innovation. To withstand the rigours of the high seas, they added a hearty dose of grape spirits to their wines, creating a drink that could weather any storm.

And thus, port wine was born – a bold and bountiful beverage that quickly captured the hearts (and palates) of the English elite. But like any good tale, there were twists and turns along the way.

As demand for port wine soared, so too did the temptation for mischief. Counterfeiters lurked in the shadows, adding sugar to boost alcohol content and elderberry juice to deepen its hue. But fear not, for justice prevailed in the form of the Marquis of Pombal, who declared the Douro Valley the sole sanctuary for true port wine.

Today, the legacy of port wine lives on, enchanting adventurers and connoisseurs alike with its storied past and exquisite flavour. So raise your glass, dear reader, and join us in a toast to the enduring spirit of port wine – from pirates to posh parties, it's a journey worth savouring! And where better to enjoy this than in Portugal itself? Come visit us, and I'll gladly raise a glass of this exquisite drink with you!