Fortified Wine
Fortified wines are a unique and captivating category that is often treated as a type of dessert wine, but is actually so vast that it deserves a category on its own.
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Unlike regular wines, fortified wines undergo a process where a distilled spirit, usually grape brandy, is added during or after fermentation. This addition not only boosts the alcohol content but also creates a complex and intriguing flavour profile.
While often grouped with dessert wines due to their potential sweetness and richness, fortified wines offer a diverse spectrum of styles, ranging from dry and savoury to lusciously sweet. Their higher alcohol content acts as a natural preservative, allowing them to age gracefully for decades and remain enjoyable for extended periods after opening.
Now, what are the four main types of fortified wine?
Port
Hailing from the Douro Valley in Portugal's wine region, Port is a fortified wine that’s usually made from a blend of various grape varietals and is renowned for its rich, fruity character and velvety texture. It is now produced worldwide and comes in various styles mostly depending on age, including Ruby, Tawny, and Vintage, each offering a unique taste experience. Port is typically off dry or sweet and pairs beautifully with cheese, chocolate, or enjoyed on its own as a decadent after-dinner treat.
Sherry & Montilla-Moriles
Originating from the sun-drenched region of Andalusia in Spain, Sherry and Montilla-Moriles are fortified wines that showcase a remarkable range of styles, from bone-dry Palomino Fino and Manzanilla to rich and nutty Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez. The unique "solera" aging system contributes to Sherry's complexity and depth and while it’s traditionally dry, it’s sometimes sweetened and served as a dessert wine. This versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, from aperitifs to dessert pairings.
Madeira
Born on the volcanic Madeira Islands, this fortified wine is known for its resilience and remarkable ageing potential. The "estufagem" process, which involves heating and oxidising the wine, creates a distinctive flavour profile with notes of caramel, toffee, and dried fruits. Madeira comes from various grape varietals and can range from dry to sweet, making it a versatile choice for both sipping and pairing with food.
Vermouth
While often associated with cocktails, vermouth is a fortified wine in its own right. Originating in Italy and France, it's made by infusing white wine with botanicals, herbs, and spices like cloves and cinnamon. Vermouth comes in two primary styles: sweet/red/dark (rosso) and white/dry (bianco). Its complex flavours and aromas make it a delightful aperitif or a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Martini and Negroni.
Fortified wines have a rich history and tradition in countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy, which boast centuries of expertise in crafting exceptional wines that have captured the hearts of connoisseurs worldwide. However, the world of fortified wine extends far beyond these classic origins. Australia, with its innovative winemaking techniques, and even China, with its emerging wine industry, are producing exciting fortified wines that are worth exploring.
While region plays a significant role in shaping the character of fortified wines, the grape varietal is equally important in achieving a unique set of flavours and aromas in the final product. Muscat is known for its intensely floral and grapey aromas, adding a touch of sweetness and perfume to every sip. Touriga Nacional is a key grape in Port production, contributing structure, tannins, and dark fruit flavours. Palomino is the primary grape used in Sherry production, offering a neutral base that allows the unique flavours of the solera ageing process to shine. Pedro Ximénez is known for its high sugar levels, resulting in intensely sweet and luscious wines.
While fortified wines offer a captivating experience, the world of wine is vast and diverse. If you're looking to expand your palate, consider exploring other wine styles, such as bold and elegant red wines, crispy and aromatic white wines, effervescent sparkling wines, or the perfect balance of red and white wine in a refreshing rosé.
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What is fortified wine?
Fortified wine is a type of wine that has had a distilled spirit, usually grape brandy, added to it. This process increases the alcohol content and creates a unique flavour profile that distinguishes it from regular wine.
What is the typical alcohol percentage of fortified wine?
The alcohol percentage of fortified wine typically ranges from 15% to 22% ABV, significantly higher than most non-fortified wines, which usually fall between 10% and 14% ABV.
Is fortified wine sweet or dry?
Fortified wine can be either sweet or dry, depending on the style and production method. Some popular examples of sweet fortified wines include Port, certain styles of Sherry (like Pedro Ximénez), and some Madeiras. Dry fortified wines include Fino and Manzanilla Sherry, dry Vermouth, and some Madeiras.
What is the difference between fortified and non-fortified wine?
The main difference between fortified and non-fortified wine lies in the addition of a distilled spirit to fortified wine. This addition increases the alcohol content, alters the flavour profile, and often enhances the ageing potential of the wine. Non-fortified wines, on the other hand, rely solely on the natural fermentation of grape juice.
Fortified wines was actually created during the 16th century, when winemakers added brandy to their wines so that it wouldn’t spoil during the long voyages of sailors at the time
How do you know if a wine is fortified?
You can usually know if a wine is fortified by checking its alcohol content. If the ABV is above 15%, it's likely a fortified wine. Additionally, the label may mention the specific type of fortified wine, such as Port, Sherry, Madeira, or Vermouth.
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