The world of fortified wines is often overlooked by casual wine drinkers. This is a shame, as there is much to be enjoyed in these unique and flavorful glasses of pleasure! Whether it’s sherry, port, madeira, or vermouth, fortified wines are sure to bring any evening to life.
Sherry is one of the most commonly recognized fortified wines, hailing from the south of Spain. Its range of styles, from dry to sweet and everything in between, is designed to please any palate. A dry sherry, such as fino or manzanilla, is perfect for aperitifs on warm days. Amontillado and oloroso sherries offer a more full-bodied flavor and can be enjoyed with a variety of cheeses or stronger dishes. Sweet sherries, like Pedro Ximénez or Moscatel, are great for dessert or an after dinner drink. While sherry may be the most well known of the fortified wines, it is merely the tip of the iceberg.
Port is perhaps the next most popular fortified wine out there. While it also comes in a range of styles and sweetness levels, port differs from sherry in that it is made exclusively in Portugal. Port is a wonderful accompaniment to desserts, especially those made with fruit or dark chocolate. Tawny ports are incredibly rich and smooth, while ruby ports are more robust and jammy. White ports are also an interesting option; they tend to be a bit more floral and light-bodied. Fortified wines like port, if stored properly, can last for many years and even mature, giving them an even deeper complexity that makes them truly remarkable.
Another type of fortified wine often enjoyed is Madeira. Madeira is made on the Portuguese island of the same name, and has been around since the Age of Exploration. Depending on how it is aged, this wine can range from sweet to bone dry, and it can even be served hot! Madeira is a great choice for accompanying lighter dishes, such as salad and fish. It can also be used in cooking, such as making a more unique variation of choux pastry.
One last type of fortified wine to mention is vermouth. This is an aromatic and herbal concoction, usually made with white wine as its base. Dry vermouth is a popular choice for making martinis and other cocktails, as it gives them a deeper complexity. Sweet vermouth is great for making Negronis or Manhattans, and can also be enjoyed on the rocks. Vermouth is a fun way to add an interesting flavor to any cocktail!
Fortified wines come in a variety of styles, making them a great addition to any night. Whether you’re into sherry, port, madeira, or vermouth, you’re sure to find something to spark your interest. These delightful drinks will bring more complexity and pleasure to your gathering. So raise a glass of one of these fine fortified wines and enjoy!
For those who are just starting to explore the world of fortified wines, there is a wide selection of reasonably priced options available. Spanish sherry, for example, offers a variety of styles and flavor profiles at an affordable price. Port, too, can be found in many different expressions and price ranges, from vintage releases to everyday prices. Madeira, as well, can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.
These wines also offer some incredible health benefits. Many are made using traditional methods that leave the wines with higher levels of antioxidants than other types of wine. This can help improve heart health, reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. In addition to these beneficial compounds, the unique flavors of fortified wines often make them a great accompaniment to lighter dishes or desserts.
If you are interested in learning more about fortified wines, there are plenty of resources available. Wine books, magazines, blogs and websites are full of helpful information on the subject. Additionally, attending specialized tasting events or taking classes can provide even more in-depth knowledge.
When it comes to buying fortified wines, there are two main considerations – the producer and the vintage. In the case of a fortified wine, the producer is often just as important as the grape variety. Knowing which producers produce the best quality wines is essential when it comes to making an informed decision. The vintage is also important, as this indicates the age of the wine. Generally speaking, older vintages tend to offer more complex and mature flavors.
Fortified wines can also be used in cocktails or cooking to create a variety of different flavor profiles. Sherry, port, madeira and vermouth all have unique characteristics which can add interest and depth to any number of recipes. From sauces and soups to cakes and mousses, there is no shortage of dishes that can be enhanced with a splash of one of these remarkable fortified wines.
Fortified wines are slowly gaining their rightful place in the world of fine wines. These unique and flavorful drinks offer up a wealth of possibilities for both novice and experienced wine drinkers alike. Whether you choose to sip on a glass of sherry, port, madeira or vermouth, you’re sure to find something new and interesting every time. So why not give these amazing wines a try today?
