The Wine Cellar

Fortified Wines

what are fortified wines?

In the 16th and 17th centuries there was a vast expansion in trade involving long sea voyages. Normal wine would not keep well under such circumstances and so fortified wines were created, typically by adding measures of brandy during fermentation to stabalise the wine. They are sometimes flavored with herbs, roots, peels, and spices.

Why do they remain popular?

Due to the higher alcohol content, firm texture and robust flavours fortified wines have remained popular to this date.

How strong are fortified wines?

Typically they are in the range of 17 to 21 percent alcohol.

What are some common examples?

Examples of fortified wines are Port, Sherry, Marsala, Vermouth and Madeira.