Fortified

Sherry, Port, and Madeira may sound too complex, or worse, old fashioned, but there is no need to be mortified by fortifieds. As the name suggests, these are wines that have been strengthened, alcoholically, with the addition of spirit. Most fortified wines hover between 15-19 percent alcohol. Historically, the spirit would help preserve the wines from spoilage on long voyages, and contribute to the wine’s longevity and age worthiness.

With production dating back hundreds of years, these strong wines have been entrenched into their respective cultures. It’s hard to pass a day in Portugal without being offered a Porto Tonico, or a Poncha in Madeira, or an Adonis with tapas in Spain, for example. Because of their blend of wine and spirit, fortifieds are highly useful and versatile in mixed drinks and cocktails, providing just enough of that spirited touch without all the booze of a spirit.