Full Description
Richard Mayson's award-winning Port and the Douro, first published in 1999, has become a classic over the last 25 years. In this comprehensively updated fifth edition he reminds us why Port is a drink that continues to fascinate wine-lovers and win new fans. The last 50 years, since the end of the dictatorship in 1974, have seen vast transformations in the Port world, from labour-saving technology in field and cellar, to advances in sales reach, especially since Portugal's formal entry into the EU in 1986, and ongoing changes in the way the industry is managed and regulated. To begin with, Mayson provides a history of Port, from the beginnings of viticulture in Roman times to the present day. The vineyards and their vines as well as the quintas where they are cultivated are thoroughly explored, followed by an explanation of Port production, both traditional and modern. A short introduction to Port types prepares the reader for a detailed assessment of vintages from 1960-2023; notable vintages (both exceptional and poor) dating back as far as 1844 are also included. The structure of the Port trade remains in flux, and so the chapter on the shippers reflects recent changes in fortune and ownership. Douro wine, which pre-dates its fortified cousin and has seen its revival accelerate over the last 20 years, receives an entire chapter to itself. Finally, for those wishing to visit the region, there are some ideas on what to do and where to stay. Peppered throughout with anecdotes, potted biographies of those who shaped the industry and insights into quirks of the trade, this extensive and engaging guide to Port is an essential book for any wine enthusiast's library.
Contents
Acknowledgements ix
Preface to the fifth edition xiii
Preface to the fourth edition xiv
1. Port and the Douro, up to date 1
2. Vineyards, vines and quintas 69
3. Making Port: Tradition and technology 163
4. Port types 185
5. Vintage Port 214
6. Storing, ageing and serving Port 280
7. Port producers and shippers 285
8. Douro wines 341
9. Directions in Oporto and the Douro 353
10. Postscript 366
Glossary of Portuguese and technical terms 371
Appendix I: Institutions regulating and promoting Port and Douro wines 379
Appendix II: Port benefício and production of Port and Douro wine 2014-23 382
Appendix III: Port grape varieties 383
Appendix IV: Global sales of Port wine 392
Bibliography 394
Index 398
Maps
Map 1. The north of Portugal and the Douro 72
Map 2. The Baixo Corgo and Cima Corgo, showing
prominent quintas 125
Map 3. The Cima Corgo and Douro Superior, showing
prominent quintas 134
Map 4. The Douro Superior, showing prominent quintas 156
Map 5. The location of Port lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia 361
