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Fortified Wine

Fortified Wine is a wine where other ingredients have been added to it. Brandy is a common fortifier, but since these wines are generally used in cooking, oftentimes herbs and seasonings are added for extra flavor.

This process started long ago when early explorers would carry bottled wine back to their homeland in the hold of their ships. The wine would spoil on long journeys so brandy was added to help preserve the wine and keep it from spoiling. This process done during the fermentation process by winemakers allowed for a more full-bodied wine with a higher percentage of alcohol and a vibrant flavor. The fortified wines have between 17-21% alcohol and less likely to spoil after being opened. Some of the more familiar fortified wines are Port, Sherry and Madeira popular with people who love to cook and added to meals to add flavor and color.

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