🎬 Top 5 Port Wine-Related Films & Documentaries
A true masterpiece by the late Martine Saunier
1. A Year in Port (2016) – Documentary
🎥 From the creators of “A Year in Burgundy” and “A Year in Champagne”
This is the definitive Port wine documentary, taking you deep into the Douro Valley. It covers the traditions, people, and challenges behind producing Port—from the grape harvest to barrel aging. You’ll visit iconic producers like Taylor’s and Quinta do Noval, and get a close-up view of how Port is evolving in a modern market.
Why watch: Beautifully shot, informative, and ideal for anyone who loves the craftsmanship of Port.
A Year In Port
A great documentary from 2016 about all that is important in the Douro Valley
2. Red Obsession (2013) – Documentary
🎥 Narrated by Russell Crowe
While it focuses on Bordeaux, this film explores the global obsession with fine wines and how Asia is shaping the market. Several Port houses and fortified wines are referenced when discussing long-term investment wines and luxury consumption.
Why watch: It frames Port as part of the global fine wine economy—not just a niche product.
Narrative by Russel Crow
3. Somm: Into the Bottle (2015) – Documentary
🎥 From the makers of “Somm”
This wine documentary goes into depth on various wine styles, including fortified wines. There's a section that dives into aging, oxidation, and vintage bottling—with expert commentary that indirectly connects to Port-style methods.
Why watch: Provides sommelier-level insight into tasting notes, aging, and storytelling behind bottles like vintage Port.
4. The Wine of Kings (2022, Portugal) – Short Documentary
🎥 Less known, but beautiful
This Portuguese film (available with English subtitles) dives into Port’s royal history, highlighting how it was once the wine of European courts. It traces its roots in British-Portuguese trade and features rare footage of cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Why watch: For the heritage lover who wants a glimpse of Port’s aristocratic past.
5. Sideways (2004) – Feature Film
🎥 A cult classic wine movie
Though more focused on Pinot Noir, there’s a great side scene where dessert wine (similar to Port) becomes the emotional climax. It shows the contrast between aged wine and aging characters, and many sommeliers have compared that scene to the love for older Port vintages.
Why watch: A poignant, funny, and cult-favorite film that will make you want to pour a glass of something special.
