Smith Woodhouse Lodge Reserve is a ruby port poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Made in the Douro Valley of northern Portugal by the historic Smith Woodhouse house, it is a rich, dark-fruited fortified wine and one of the most satisfying ways to finish a meal on our list. We pour it because a good ruby port is the classic Italian-and-Mediterranean way to end dinner — sweet, warming, and made for chocolate and cheese.

About the Producer

Smith Woodhouse was founded in 1784 and has long been one of the Douro’s respected port houses. Today it is part of the Symington family of port producers, a group with deep roots and centuries of combined experience in the region. The house is known for traditional, understated ports made with care rather than flash, and its Lodge Reserve is a polished example of the ruby style.

Region & Grape

The wine comes from the Douro Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region and the birthplace of port. It is made from traditional Douro grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. Ruby port is aged for a relatively short time in large vessels to preserve its fresh, vivid dark-fruit character before bottling.

Tasting Notes

Expect a deep ruby color and a generous nose of ripe blackberry, black cherry and plum. The palate is rich and fruit-forward, with touches of cocoa and warm spice, finishing smooth and gently warming. It is sweet without being heavy, which makes it easy to enjoy alongside dessert.

What to Pair It With

Ruby port and chocolate are a timeless match. It is wonderful with our Flourless Chocolate Cake and Mama’s Tiramisu, and it also shines next to the Charcuterie Board. Explore the full dine-in menu for more.

How It’s Served at Grappa

Smith Woodhouse Lodge Reserve Ruby Port is offered as a 1.5 oz or 3 oz pour at $11 / $16.50.

FAQ

Where is Smith Woodhouse Ruby Port from?

It is made in the Douro Valley of northern Portugal, the historic home of port, by the Smith Woodhouse house, which was founded in 1784 and is part of the Symington family of port producers.

What does Smith Woodhouse Ruby Port taste like?

It is rich and fruit-forward, with ripe blackberry, black cherry and plum, touches of cocoa and spice, and a smooth, gently warming finish.

Is ruby port sweet?

Yes. Ruby port is a fortified, naturally sweet wine, making it an ideal after-dinner pour, especially with chocolate and other desserts.

When you visit, book a table, explore the full wine list, and the dine-in menu.