Sometimes the most amazing cocktails are actually the simplest. A classic aperitif throughout Portugal, this drink features Portugal’s lesser known white port wine.
White Port, a fortified wine made from white grapes from Portugal’s Douro Valley, can range from dry to sweet, but this cocktail takes a refreshing, fruity, light, dry style as a counterpoint to the bitter tonic water. Lime and fresh mint add a clean, bright aroma and eye-catching appearance.
White Port is easy to find online and is sold at many liquor stores, and we love Taylor’s Tip Dry White Port because it’s very affordable (often less than $20 for a 750ml bottle) and has a great balance of flavors and aromas like lemon peel, tangerine, and yellow apple.
Why White Port and Tonic Works
This drink is a highball cocktail, meaning it has an alcoholic base with a carbonated mixer added. In this case, the mixer isn’t just there to lengthen the drink or lower its alcohol by volume (ABV): the tonic water complements the bitter and sweet flavors of the White Port itself.
This is one of the most delicious ways to drink White Port, but it can also be enjoyed neat, chilled, or over ice.
Notes from the Food and Wine Test Kitchen
Fever-Tree makes tonic water in a variety of flavours, including elderflower and lemon, so experiment to find your favourite flavour and create your own unique drink.
