#ruby port

[askwhatsforlunch]

Cherry Bulldog

We’ve had errands to run in the morning, and I need to finish packing, as well shall take a night bus heading Southwards tomorrow; but a much-deserved holiday can finally begin! And I’m kicking mine off with this bright-red and deliciously refreshing Cherry Bulldog, to finish off the last of the beautifully ripe little gems I found at a good price in the shop the other day (a rare enough occasion not to jump on it!) This gin cocktail could easily become a favourite of mine, but I know I can only have it when the cherries are cheap! This was an early birthday treat then, perhaps; and a very good one!

Ingredients (serves 1):

6 ripe cherries, rinsed

half a lime, cut into wedges

1 star anise

1 tablespoon demerara sugar

75 millilitres/ 2 1/2 fluid ounces (5 tablespoons) good quality London Dry Gin

15 millilitres/1/2 fluid ounce (1 tablespoon) Ruby Port

ice cubes

Halve and pit four of the cherries. place cherry halves in a shaker, along with lime wedges, star anise and demerara sugar. Muddle thoroughly with a muddler, until you have a bright red fruit purée.

Add the Gin and Port, and fill the shaker with ice cubes. Close tightly, and shake energetically, until well-chilled.

Double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Spear reserved two cherries onto a cocktail pick, to garnish.

Enjoy Cherry Bulldog immediately!

[acocktailmoment]

Winter spritz !

Makes 1 glass:

red wine 50ml sparkling wine 50ml sparkling water 50ml ruby port 25ml

Combine the ingredients in an ice-filled wine goblet. Stir gently. Garnish with an orange twist and, optionally, a cinnamon stick.

Photograph: Patrice de Villiers/The Observer

This article was not sponsored or supported by a third-party. A Cocktail Moment is not affiliated with any individuals or companies depicted here.

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[liwinespirits]

Understanding Port Wine Styles: Ruby, Tawny, and Vintage

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO PORT WINE STYLES Port wine is one of the most distinctive fortified wines in the world, and understanding its main styles makes choosing and enjoying it much easier. WHAT MAKES PORT WINE DIFFERENT Port is made by halting fermentation early using distilled grape spirits. This preserves natural sugars and raises the alcohol level, creating the rich, layered character port is known for. THE MAIN STYLES - Ruby Port – Aged briefly in large tanks, keeping its bright red color and fresh fruit flavors. - Tawny Port – Aged longer in oak barrels, developing amber tones with notes of caramel and nuts. - Vintage Port – From a single exceptional harvest year, these bottles develop deep complexity over decades. SWEET VS. DRY Sweet ports pair well with chocolate desserts. Drier styles complement savory dishes and aged cheeses. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right bottle for any occasion. FOOD PAIRINGS WORTH KNOWING Ruby port alongside dark chocolate is a classic combination. Tawny port works beautifully with nutty cheeses and roasted nuts. Vintage port stands well on its own as a sipping wine. This overview covers the essentials for anyone looking to explore port wine with more confidence.