Fortified Wine

The word "fortified" when used to describe wine often refers to a wine that has been sweetened and sometimes contains a spirit, like sherry or port, added. For example, in the case of Port, fruit juice is added to the wine to give it its signature flavour. 

What is fortified wine?

Fortified wine is a type of wine that has had additional alcohol added to it. This can be done for a variety of reasons, including increasing the shelf life of the wine or making it more potent. Fortified wines are often sweeter and higher in alcohol content than regular wines.

The History of Fortified Wine

Fortified wine is a wine that has had its alcohol content increased by the addition of a distilled spirit. The most common spirit used for this purpose is brandy, but other spirits, such as rum, whisky, and even gin, can be used. The fortification process can occur before or after fermentation, and the resulting wine can range in strength from 15% to 22% alcohol by volume.

Fortified wines have a long history, dating back to the days of ancient Rome. In those days, it was common to add herbs and spices to wine in order to make it more palatable and increase its shelf life. This practice eventually led to the development of fortified wines, which were particularly popular in the Mediterranean region.

During the Middle Ages, fortified wines were often used as medicinal preparations, and they remained popular for this purpose into the early 20th century. In more recent years, fortified wines have become increasingly popular as after-dinner drinks and aperitifs. Well-known fortified wines include port, sherry, Madeira, Marsala, and vermouth.

Fortified Wine Pairings

There are many different types of fortified wine, and each one pairs well with different foods. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right pairing for your next meal.

For a light, refreshing fortified wine, try a fino sherry with seafood or light appetisers. For a richer fortified wine, go for an oloroso sherry with meat or cheese dishes. If you want to really impress your guests, try a vintage port with dessert!

Whatever you choose, make sure to serve your fortified wine at the correct temperature. Finos and manzanillas should be served chilled, while olorosos and other types of sherry can be served at room temperature. Vintage ports should always be served slightly below room temperature.

Refine Product Search Refine Product Search

Hughes & Hughes Rivaux Vermouth 2019
$4500
In stock
+
Niepoort Ruby Port750ml
$3960
In stock
+
McWilliam's Royal Reserve Sweet 750mL -10%
McWilliam's Royal Reserve Sweet 750mL
$979 $1088
In stock
+
McWilliam's Royal Reserve Sweet 750mL -10%
McWilliam's Royal Reserve Sweet 750mL
$979 $1088
In stock
+
Saltram Port Mr Pickwick 750ML -10%
Saltram Port Mr Pickwick 750ML
$7649 $8499
In stock
+
Penfolds Great Grand Father Port 750ML -10%
Penfolds Great Grand Father Port 750ML
$32399 $35999
In stock
+
De Bortoli Old Boys Tawny 500ML -10%
De Bortoli Old Boys Tawny 500ML
$4589 $5099
In stock
+
Penfolds Grand Father Port 750ML -10%
Penfolds Grand Father Port 750ML
$9899 $10999
In stock
+
Penfolds Grandfather Port 6x750Ml
$78179
In stock
+
Martini Vermouth Extra Dry 6x1000Ml
$17467
In stock
+
Martini Vermouth Bianco 6x1000Ml
$17467
In stock
+
Cinzano Vermouth Bianco 6x1000Ml
$14707
In stock
+
Penfolds Grandfather Port 750Ml
$17127
In stock
+