We always assumed that port tonic was a frivolous concoction enjoyed only by those who have not been initiated into the mysteries of port wine. But at an event hosted by Confraria do Vinho do Porto (the illustrious port-wine guild), famed Wine & Soul enologists Jorge Seródio Borges and Sandra Tavares da Silva greeted us with glasses of port tonic. Liberated from our snobbish preconceptions, we tried this libation for the first time. One sip told us everything we needed to know: this is the perfect drink for a hot summer day. Since then, when we crave a moment of jubilation, we treat ourselves to a port tonic. And while we first tried it in the summertime, we have since discovered that it brings us joy all year round.
Port Tonics are easy to make. Here’s the recipe we use.
1. Fill a large glass to the brim with ice.
2. Add two large orange peels, making sure they do not have any of the bitter white pith.
3. Add 2 ounces of white port and 4 ounces of high-quality tonic water. Stir gently.
For a drier port tonic, use a dry white port like the splendid Chip Taylor Dry. For a sweeter version, use a sweet white port.
Share with friends and celebrate life!
Salt of Portugal 
I am eager to try this delightful, delicious concoction. And when I do, I will add my memories of ocean breezes and waves and sunsets to the recipe.
This sounds wonderful, do they use a preferred Tonic water, if so which one? My favourite, until recently was Fever Tree, but they seem to be making all their mixers too sweet of late…
I can’t believe it’s taken you so long to try porto tónico! 🙂
Guilty as charged.
My favourite drink! We had one with cinnamon and spearmint in Ayamonte. They are always delicious!!