Sweet, Velvety Encore Port from Arrington Vineyards

By Tammie Hughes

I never liked port; it was at the insistence of a neighbor that I give Port another try. The subtle nuances are no longer unfamiliar to me, with different vineyards offering a wide range of flavors and smokiness. After sampling a few varieties, I discovered the Port from Arrington Vineyards® in Nashville’s Wine Country. 

It is aptly named The Final Encore. Bravo! What a great name, befitting its place to be served with the last course. I am happy to say that my recent move to the Grand Strand from Nashville included three bottles of Encore, which I have been coveting. 

Encore is a slightly sweet offering with a hint of smokiness and a musky undertone that feels like a blanket of smooth velvet on the palate. Dark cherries dance with the brown sugar and the oak barrels to envelope your tastebuds in symphonic harmony. It pairs perfectly with a dark, bitter chocolate. It also compliments sharp, well-aged cheddar, a nice bleu cheese, or a smokey Gouda. Throw in a few fresh sprigs of arugula with the cheddar for a nice peppery bite or a few pieces of fresh fennel hearts with the Gouda and I promise you will be a fan too. 

Arrington Vineyards was a passion project of Kix Brooks, part of the band duo, Brooks & Dunn. They first opened the doors in 2007 and have become known as “Nashville’s Wine Country.” 

If you find yourself visiting the Nashville area, stop into Arrington Vineyards®. I would also recommend the Kinzley Sauvignon Blanc and The Red Fox Red. Their property has grown significantly over the years to include the vineyard house, the pavilion, the tasting lodge, the saloon, and the barn. There’s frequent entertainment on the front lawn and at the barn, during season. Their instagram page will make you want to visit soon! 

Arrington Vineyards 
6211 Patton Rd Arrington, TN 37014