The fortified wine port from the Douro Valley in Portugal was created in the 17th century when war with France meant that the United Kingdom had to look elsewhere for its wine. Fortification stabilised the wine and ensured it arrived at the tables of British consumers in good condition. Portugal was only known for port (and, perhaps, latterly, Vinho Verde). However, still wine production has developed very rapidly in the last 30 years; wines of fine quality, made from the wealth of indigenous grape varieties, are being produced and exported from all over Portugal.
