Although actual “port” must come from Portugal in order to be labeled as such, wines that are aged with brandy and produced here in the States are commonly distinguished as “port-like” or “port-style”. It is typically served after dinner as a dessert wine because of its higher alcohol content and sweet finish, though it can be an intriguing wine to serve with a cheese course as well.

Besito de Coco is a port-like wine, fortified with brandy and embellished with a hint of chocolaty goodness. Unlike many port-style wines which are fuller bodied, richer, and heavier than most wines, with almost a syrup-like consistency, Noisy Water’s Besito de Coco is lighter bodied, still rich in flavor, but not as heavy on the tongue. It makes a fabulous dessert after a heavy meal if paired with fresh strawberries or raspberries, or it can be served as an accompaniment to a cheese course to balance the nutty saltiness of cheeses such as Gruyere or Asiago or sharp Cheddars.