For The Love Of Port

I've been considering buying some Port from a vendor, and when I contacted them through their website and asked if they would hold a purchase until Fall, their response was surprising (at least to this newbie).

In essence they said there was no problem shipping Port in summer in terms of heat damage. I'm anxious to learn all I can about Port, but not at the expense of a ruined bottle. What is your experience--do you order/ship Port in summer? Any success/horror stories??

As always I bow to your experience and wisdom--sure am glad you don't charge for this education!!

David

Compared to non-fortified wines, port is relatively robust - but it can still be damaged. A modest one-off thermal shock suffered in the course of delivery is probably not a big issue.

But if a case of wine was left sitting in a van or container in the sun, so that the temperature of the bottles got to 100 degrees or more, then I would be concerned. When this happens, the corks sometimes end up protruding slightly as a tell-tale sign of mistreatment.

But there is a simple solution. Temperature controlled delivery vehicles are commonplace.

Ask your supplier if their delivery vehicles are thus equipped - if not, don't buy in summer!

Tom