Fortified Wine

Fortified wine is a type of wine that has had a distilled spirit, usually brandy, added to it. This addition increases the alcohol content and alters the flavour profile of the wine. Fortified wines typically have an alcohol content of between 15% and 22% ABV. This is higher than that of regular wines, which usually range from 8% to 14% ABV.

Fortified wine is made by first fermenting grape juice to create a base wine. During or after fermentation, a distilled spirit (typically brandy) is added to increase the alcohol content. If the spirit is added before fermentation is complete, the wine remains sweet due to residual sugars; if added after fermentation, the wine is dry. 

The wine is then aged in barrels or tanks to develop its flavours, with the ageing process varying in duration and method, depending on the type of fortified wine being produced. The final product is often blended from different vintages to achieve consistency before being bottled. 

When you buy fortified wine online, once it arrives at your home, lay it on its side in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If you keep corked bottles of fortified wine upright, there’s a risk of the cork drying out and shrinking, which can create space for oxygen to creep into the bottle (oxidation), potentially spoiling the wine. However, bottles with screw caps instead of corks can be stored upright.

Once opened, fortified wines should be stored in the fridge to slow down oxidation. This is especially important for sweeter varieties to keep them in good condition.

Fortified wines have excellent ageing potential. Ageing can take place in barrels, bottles, or both, resulting in wines that are produced with intricate and varying notes. Whether it's the nutty richness of aged sherry, the complex sweetness of vintage port, or the enduring quality of Madeira, fortified wines offer a fascinating range of flavours and drinking experiences for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Fortified wines, with their diverse flavour profiles and varying levels of sweetness, can be paired with a wide range of foods. The key is to match the intensity and flavours of the wine with complimentary dishes to enhance the overall dining experience. For instance, ruby port pairs well with strong cheeses and high-quality dark chocolate. In contrast, dry Vermouth works wonderfully with seafood and salads. By understanding the characteristics of each type of fortified wine, you can create harmonious pairings that elevate both the wine and the food.

Fortified wines such as Vermouth and Marsala are popular cocktail ingredients. Here are some of our favourite fortified wine cocktail recipes:

• Dirty Martini
• Boulevardier 
• Manhattan
• Rob Roy

Host the ultimate cocktail party with our full range of mixers, juices, cocktail glasses, and pitchers to use when creating these moreish recipes. The Bottle Club has everything you need to mix up your favourite cocktail, and you can easily get everything you need delivered direct to your door.

You can buy some brilliant non-alcoholic fortified wines, such as Lyle’s Aptertif Rosso and Lyle’s Dry Aperitif. You can also buy other low or no alcohol wines from our extensive low alcohol collection. From 0% alcohol sparkling wines to low alcohol white wines, these are the perfect alternative if you want to keep a clear head.