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What Are Fortified Wines?
Fortified wines are produced by adding neutral grape spirit (typically brandy) to wine during or after fermentation. This process serves multiple purposes: it stops fermentation when added early (preserving natural grape sweetness), increases alcohol content to 15-22%, and creates wines with exceptional aging potential.
The fortification process was originally developed as a preservation method for wines that needed to survive long sea voyages. Today, it's celebrated as an art form that produces some of the world's most age-worthy and food-friendly wines.
McLaren Vale's reputation today rests largely on its exceptional red winesābold Shiraz, elegant Grenache, and structured Cabernet Sauvignon that have earned international acclaim. However, long before the region became synonymous with premium table wines, McLaren Vale was building its foundation on an entirely different style of wine: fortified wines. These rich, complex, and long-lived wines not only shaped the early character of McLaren Vale but also represent some of the region's most distinguished and historically significant expressions.
Australian tawny ports, now known simply as "tawny" due to EU regulations, represent some of the finest fortified wines in the world. These rich, complex wines showcase Australia's unique terroir and centuries-old winemaking expertise. Here are the top 10 Australian tawnies that demonstrate exceptional quality and character.
From the sun-drenched vineyards of Portugal's Douro Valley emerges one of the world's most cherished fortified wines: tawny port. This rich, amber-hued wine carries centuries of tradition, innovation, and cultural significance. Let's explore the fascinating history of tawny port, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a premium fortified wine.
