In St. Helena, California sits an unassuming property that is sans the flashiness, bells, whistles and modern architecture of many of its larger and more popular neighbors. But that doesn't mean that what is inside is any less special. Prager Winery & Port Works has been in the Napa Valley for an astounding forty-five years, quietly making very special fortified wines of differing varietals. This family owned and operated establishment is now run by the second generation of family and they are eager to greet you and show you their pride and joy - port wines!
The 2019 Aria White Port Wine is made of Napa Valley Chardonnay and it shows off honey gold colors in the glass. Sweet on the nose with aromas of cooked pear, orange candy and baked apple crisp. While most folks probably taste Port wines chilled, we opted to drink this at room temperature (about 67° F) from our favorite mini Beglian beer tasting glass. The non-chilled tasting option allows for more flavors to introduce themselves like candied apple, marzipan, honey and wisps of citrus. It's incredibly mouth-coating and would be an excellent pairing with shrimp cocktail and salty cheeses.
We don't get the opportunity to taste many White Port wines so this was a real gift for us. Prager Winery & Port Works appears to have an idyllic setting, surrounded by the family members behind the label. If you're looking to make a trip to Napa Valley and Port wine is your jam, we highly encourage you to check them out. We are really looking forward to tasting their Vintage and Tawny Port wines soon. If we could change one thing about this bottle, it would be to put a whiskey-style of stopper as the closure rather than a traditional wine cork. That way it could be stored and enjoyed longer. Overall, very well done!
FYI, the winery's website lists the 2020 Aria White Port available at the link above.
ABV: 20.0%
Napa Valley AVA
Winery: Prager Winery & Port Works
Suggested retail price: $65.00
Drink The Bottles score: 91/100
