Port Wine and Sparkling Wine: Separated Twins?

Many are unaware of the curious relationship between Port wine and sparkling wine, two seemingly distinct festive drinks that, in fact, share a common “sweet” origin.

The story dates back to the 19th century, when sparkling wine in Champagne was simply “doux” (sweet), and like Port wine, it was typically served as a dessert wine on special occasions.

It was in the British market, where both beverages enjoyed great popularity, that it was realized they could be competing with each other. This led the Champagne region to feel “pressured” to find an alternative in order to differentiate itself.

It is said that in response to the British taste for less sweet wines, Champagne Brut was born— a dry and fresher style that carved out a new space in the market as an “aperitif wine”, eventually becoming the preferred style of sparkling wine worldwide.

With a hint of romance, we can say that it was thanks to the success of Port wine in the international market that sparkling wine was born.

This milestone not only allowed Port wine to remain the unquestionable ideal companion for dessert, but also enabled the diversification of sparkling wine consumption, leading to a more versatile version that ensured both drinks found their own space and moment at the table and in global gastronomic culture.