Fortified wines

Fortified wine, a wine with intense aromas

Definition and characteristics of fortified wine

Fortified wine (or fortified wines) refers to a type of wine whose fermentation is halted by the addition of alcohol. This process, known as fortification, involves adding a spirit (neutral alcohol) to the must during the winemaking process.

This process preserves some of the grapes’ natural sugars, resulting in fortified wines that are sweeter and richer in flavour. Fortified wines can be white or red, depending on the grape varieties used, and have a higher alcohol content than traditional wines.

The characteristics of fortified wine are based on:

• a high sugar content
• strong aromatic intensity
• a more powerful structure on the palate

Each fortified wine develops aromas of fruit, spices or dried fruit, depending on its production method and ageing.

Production process and regions

The production of fortified wine follows a specific method. Once fermentation has begun, the addition of alcohol stops the action of the yeasts. The must thus retains its sugars, creating a fortified wine.

Fortified wines are produced in various regions around the world:

• in France, with appellations such as Banyuls or Muscat
• in Portugal, with the famous Porto
• in Madeira
• in other regions where this method is used

Grape varieties such as Muscat, Grenache or other types of grapes influence the flavours and style of the fortified wine. Barrel ageing also adds complexity.

Choosing and tasting a fortified wine

How to choose a fortified wine

When choosing a fortified wine, several criteria should be taken into account:

• the type (red fortified wine, white fortified wine)
• the grape varieties used (Muscat, Grenache…)
• the appellation and region
• the production and ageing methods
• the price in CHF depending on the quality of the product

Each bottle of fortified wine offers a different profile, ranging from fruity fortified wines to more concentrated and powerful ones.

Food pairings and tasting

Fortified wine lends itself to numerous food and wine pairings. Thanks to its high alcohol and sugar content, it pairs well with:

• fruit desserts
• chocolates
• cheeses
• aperitifs

Tasting a fortified wine highlights its flavours and length on the palate. Fortified wines are appreciated by connoisseurs for their intensity and complexity.

FAQ on fortified wines

What distinguishes a fortified wine?

A fortified wine is distinguished by the addition of alcohol during fermentation, which preserves the sugars and strengthens the structure.

What are the best-known fortified wines?

Port, Banyuls, Muscat and Madeira are among the most renowned fortified wines.

How much does a fortified wine cost?

The price of a bottle varies depending on the region, appellation and quality. In Switzerland, prices in CHF cover a wide range.

How should fortified wine be stored?

Thanks to their alcohol and sugar content, fortified wines keep well over time, especially when stored in the right conditions. Once opened, the bottle will keep for just under a week.