Porto Lagarada Reserva Ruby Port

Álvaro van Zellar’s family have been making fabulous Port since 1715—they’re legends. They’re also friends of ours, which means you’re getting special access to a very cool new release. In fact, if you’ve got an insatiable sweet tooth (or someone you know does), then this gorgeous bottle of Ruby Port Reserva is a must try. Port’s famous dessert wines are made in a variety of styles—“Ruby Port” is the happy, entry-level introduction, but “Reserva” denotes an extra step-up in quality. And considering the cachet the Van Zellar name has in wine enthusiast circles, we’d say Lagarada is a great place to start your journey of Port discovery! Speaking of names, lagarada is the term for the celebratory foot-treading of grapes, a very traditional (and fun!) event in the Port winemaking process. There’s singing, and dancing, and laughing—all while barefoot, knee-deep in crushed grapes. Álvaro’s blend of grapes here? Touriga Nacional with Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão. Aged for four years in a combination of large and small oak barrels (balsieros and tonéis, respectively), Lagarada was released ready to dance alongside your dessert plates. Here’s how to enjoy it: Generally, Port of all styles is served in 3-4 oz. pours—owing in part to its higher alcohol content—at or just under room temperature. Swirl gently and inhale its powerful, heady aromas of fresh berries, followed by hints of eucalyptus and rock rose. Sip and prepare for liftoff: let the waves of sweet (yet refreshing!) black and red fruits wash over your palate before they give way to notes of decadent chocolatey spice. Chiseled tannins frame a finish that lingers on and on…what a treat with red velvet cupcakes, dark chocolate mousse, or triple-berry cheesecake.