Top 10 Ports & Fortified Wines to Enjoy This Autumn in Malta
This article highlights the 10 best ports and fortified wines to enjoy during Malta's cosy autumn season, showcasing options that cater to various tastes and occasions. From the velvety richness of Sandeman 20-Year-Old Tawny to the budget-friendly Burmester Sotto Voce Ruby Reserve, each selection is paired with complementary Maltese delicacies like gbejna, imqaret, and qagħaq tal-għasel. The list includes standout choices such as the bold Pintas Wine & Soul Vintage Port 2018 and the eco-conscious Churchill’s 20-Year-Old Tawny, offering something for both casual sippers and connoisseurs. With a focus on mindful indulgence and Malta’s culinary traditions, these fortified wines promise to elevate any seasonal gathering or quiet evening at home. Cheers to a flavourful and balanced autumn!
10 Best Ports and Fortified Wines to Warm Up Your Autumn Evenings in Malta
As the cosy season sets in, there’s nothing quite like a glass of port or fortified wine to complement a hearty meal or a quiet evening of reflection. Known for their rich, complex flavours and versatility, these wines can elevate your dining experience while offering an indulgent yet mindful way to unwind. Whether you're pairing them with artisanal Maltese cheeses, dark chocolate, or simply sipping them solo, we've rounded up the best options to suit every palate and occasion.
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Best Port Overall
Sandeman 20-Year-Old Tawny
Price: €55
This exquisite tawny port balances notes of dried fruit and nuts with a velvety smoothness, making it ideal for sipping on a crisp evening. Pair it with a plate of gbejna (Maltese goat cheese) or a medley of roasted nuts for a wholesome, nutrient-rich treat. -
Best Budget Port
Burmester Sotto Voce Ruby Reserve
Price: €20
Affordable yet flavourful, this ruby reserve offers vibrant red fruit notes that pair beautifully with lighter desserts like imqaret (Maltese date pastries). A great option for those looking to enjoy a quality port without stretching their budget. -
Best Vintage Port
Pintas Wine & Soul Vintage Port 2018
Price: €60
Rich and full-bodied, this vintage port is perfect for special occasions. Its bold flavour profile pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate or a decadent fig-based dessert, ideal for a dinner party or a slow evening by the fire. -
Best Colheita Port
Krohn Colheita 2006
Price: €40
This single-harvest port is aged to perfection, boasting a nutty, caramelised flavour that’s perfect for pairing with aged gbejna or a platter of dried figs and walnuts. A mindful indulgence for those who appreciate the art of slow dining. -
Best Port Gift Set
Barão de Vilar Book of Port
Price: €70
Looking for the perfect gift for a wine enthusiast? This beautifully packaged set offers a curated selection of ports, perfect for sharing over a meal with friends or family. Pair with a seasonal Maltese platter featuring ftira bread, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives for a Mediterranean twist. -
Best Minimal Intervention Port
Churchill’s 20-Year-Old Tawny
Price: €55
Crafted with minimal intervention, this tawny port is ideal for the eco-conscious connoisseur. Its elegant balance of flavours pairs seamlessly with a vegan dessert like almond biscotti or even a simple bowl of fresh strawberries. -
Best LBV Port
Quinta das Carvalhas 2019 LBV
Price: €25
Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) ports like this one are bottled after a few years of barrel aging, giving them a refined yet accessible profile. Perfect for pairing with a slice of qagħaq tal-għasel (Maltese honey ring) for a fusion of local and international flavours. -
Best 10-Year-Old Tawny Port
Noval 10-Year-Old Tawny Port
Price: €30
This 10-year-old tawny is smooth, aromatic, and incredibly versatile. Serve it slightly chilled as an aperitif alongside a fresh salad of arugula, oranges, and walnuts to highlight its citrusy undertones. -
Best Unfiltered Port
Quinta da Devesa LBV 2017
Price: €22
Unfiltered ports retain their natural complexities, making them a favourite among purists. This 2017 LBV is robust and pairs excellently with rich, savoury dishes like slow-cooked rabbit, a staple of Maltese cuisine. -
Best White Port
Taylor’s Chip Dry White Port
Price: €20
A lighter and fresher alternative to traditional red ports, this dry white port is perfect for Malta’s mild autumn evenings. Serve it chilled with a simple plate of fresh gbejna, green grapes, and almonds for a healthy yet indulgent snack.
From cosy nights at home to gatherings with loved ones, these fortified wines can bring warmth and joy to the season while complementing Malta's rich culinary traditions. Remember, moderation is key when enjoying alcoholic beverages, so savour these selections mindfully to enhance both your palate and your well-being. Cheers to a season of flavour and balance!