Head for port tonight

Not to steal too much from Pitch Forks, but there are a ton of events around town this week — including the one I’m currently attending at the American Royal. (More on that tomorrow.)

The cool Eljay’s River Market Coffeehouse, which hosts everything from improv groups to acoustic metal bands, puts on a wine event later today.

It’s called Ports and Chocolates. In the 19th Century port was consdiered dessert (hence dessert wine) but in the 20th Century we moved more towards chocolate. It’s good to see the two combining under one roof.

Among the four ports are Warres Otima, a 20-year-old wood-aged or “tawny port.” Another tawny port is Neipoort, which is younger and lighter. Both are from Portugal. A third Portugese wine — W&J Graham’s six grapes —  is a reserve porto which means it’s young and ready to drink; it’s also apparently a good introduction into the world of ports. Finally, there is a Californian port infused with chocolate extract. It’s called Trentadue Chocolate Amore Port, and may be closer to a syrup since it’s described as “great over vanilla ice cream.

All are paired with local chocolate from Annedore’s Chocolates. The tasting lasts from 5:30 to 7:30 tonight.