DRINK DIFFERENT - WHITE PORT

In many ways, fino sherry is the perfect aperitif: dry, full of yeasty flavor to whet the appetite, and with a good hit of alcohol to get the taste buds ready for food.  It is also great value, one of the bargains of the wine world.

But across the border in Portugal, there is a really good alternative.  The bodegas of Oporto are best known for their sweet, rich fortified red wines, but the best kept secret here is white port.  It too can be sweet, but it is the dry variety which stands comparison with fino as an aperitif par excellence.

Drink it well chilled, put ice in it, or even try it with tonic for a longer drink; Hugh Johnson suggests adding a sprig of mint.  Whichever way you try it, white port is the perfect alternative summer tipple to get your appetite ready for dinner.