The Best Ports of 2024

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to embrace traditions: hunting for stocking fillers, decking the halls, and indulging in the rich, warming delight of Port. Perfect for cold winter nights, a glass of fortified wine adds a touch of luxury and nostalgia. Whether enriching puddings, marinading meats, or simply pouring yourself a festive treat, Port is the quintessential Christmas drink.

How We Picked the Best Ports for Christmas

The top Ports of the season are chosen based on aggregated critic scores. These scores go beyond surface comparisons, factoring in critic reputation, influence, and the number of reviews. This weighted approach ensures a comprehensive view of each wine’s quality and appeal.

So, which Ports made Santa’s nice list this year? Let’s explore the top 10 selections that will bring holiday cheer to your celebrations.

1. Quinta do Noval Nacional Vintage Port

• Score: 97 points
• Price: $1217 (up from $1143 in 2015)
• Highlights: Sourced from ungrafted vines untouched by phylloxera, this wine is a nod to Portugal’s heritage. Renowned for its complexity and longevity, it’s an investment in both flavor and value.

2. W & J Graham’s The Stone Terraces Vintage Port

• Score: 96 points
• Price: $311 (up from $229 in 2015)
• Highlights: Made from two small stone-terraced vineyards, this rare gem is crafted only in exceptional years. Its scarcity and consistent quality make it a standout choice.

3. Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port

• Score: 95 points
• Price: $113 (up slightly from $108 a decade ago)
• Highlights: A blend of Taylor’s three prestigious estates, this Vintage Port offers remarkable quality at a surprisingly modest price.

4. Taylor Fladgate Vargellas Vinha Velha Vintage Port

• Score: 95 points
• Price: $238 (up from $193 in 2015)
• Highlights: Known as the backbone of Taylor’s blends, this wine is crafted from old vines, delivering depth and complexity with every sip.

5. Fonseca Vintage Port

• Score: 94 points
• Price: $105 (up from $104 a decade ago)
• Highlights: Fonseca’s lush, exotic style shines in this flagship wine, which has even garnered perfect scores in select vintages.

6. Quinta do Noval Vintage Port

• Score: 94 points
• Price: $113 (up from $102 in 2015)
• Highlights: Recognized for its pure fruit character and delicate nature, this Vintage Port is a superbly balanced option at an accessible price.

7. Quinta do Vesuvio Capela Vintage Port

• Score: 95 points
• Price: $190 (up from $126 in 2015)
• Highlights: Made from old vines in small vineyard plots, this micro-terroir Port is crafted with traditional techniques, offering a taste of history and exclusivity.

8. Dow’s Vintage Port

• Score: 94 points
• Price: $117 (up from $101 in 2015)
• Highlights: A family-owned legacy, Dow’s delivers sophistication in every bottle, with each Vintage Port released only in the finest years.

9. Graham’s Vintage Port

• Score: 94 points
• Price: $104 (up from $92 in 2015)
• Highlights: Blended from top vineyard parcels, this wine consistently impresses with its rich flavors and exceptional craftsmanship.

10. Niepoort Vintage Port

• Score: 94 points
• Price: $98 (up from $80 in 2015)
• Highlights: Known for its concentration and finesse, Niepoort’s Vintage Port is a delightful and affordable option that pairs perfectly with festive treats.

Why Port is the Perfect Christmas Gift

Each of these Ports represents a harmonious blend of tradition, quality, and value. Whether you’re looking to impress a connoisseur or treat yourself, these bottles bring unmatched elegance to the season. From budget-friendly options to collector-worthy investments, there’s something for everyone.

So, why not add a touch of fortified magic to your Christmas celebrations? A bottle of Port under the tree or in a stocking is sure to make spirits bright!