Fortified wines have long been celebrated for their depth, complexity, and versatility. Whether you’re enjoying a glass by the fire, pairing it with dessert, or elevating your favourite cocktail, fortified wines offer something for everyone. Let’s dive into the world of fortified wines, exploring the iconic styles of Port and Sherry, plus a few of the lesser known fortified wine varieties. What Are Fortified Wines? Fortified wines are a category of wine that have been enhanced with a distilled spirit, typically grape brandy, during or after fermentation. They are known for their rich, concentrated flavours, making them suitable for sipping, pairing with food, or using in cocktails and cooking. Key Characteristics of Fortified Wines: Higher Alcohol Content: The boiling and condensing of the spirit during distillation increases the alcohol content. Fortified wines typically have an ABV between 16–22% - higher than regular wine due to the addition of spirits. Diverse Styles: Depending on when the distilled spirit is added during the winemaking process, the resulting wine can be sweet or dry with the middle-ground of medium-sweet or medium-dry covered in virtually all types of fortified wine categories. Adding the spirit mid-fermentation kills off the yeast and results in a sweeter fortified wine due to the larger amount of residual sugar left behind. If the spirit is added when the fermentation process has taken place, a higher percentage of the sugar has been broken down by the yeast, resulting in a drier fortified wine. Longevity: The practice of fortifying wine began in the Mediterranean region in the 13th century. It was popularized in the 17th century and became widespread by the 1840s due to the fact that the fortifying process helped to preserve and stabilize wine. This made the wine more robust and long-lasting which was perfect for long sea voyages when previously wine would spoil due to exposure to oxygen, bacteria, and fluctuating temperatures. Complex Flavours: Fortified wines offer a symphony of complex flavours that range from nutty and toasty notes, like almonds and caramel, to rich dried fruit tones, such as raisins, figs, and prunes. Their profiles often include warm spices like cinnamon and clove, and earthy and herbal undertones. These layers of flavour make fortified wines exceptionally versatile and deeply satisfying. Portuguese Port Port wine, produced primarily from red grapes grown and fermented in the upper Douro Valley in northern Portugal, is arguably the most famous fortified wine, with a sweet, rich flavour, perfect for pairing with blue cheese, chocolate desserts, or nuts. Types of Port: Ruby Port: The most extensively produced port, ruby port is made using red grapes and is bright and fruity. It is typically aged for a shorter period and in tanks made of stainless steel to prevent oxidative aging and to preserve its rich ruby colour. At Dirty Laundry, we are proud to produce a ruby port-style wine made from a blend of Merlot and Pinot Noir that has been aged for 3 years and fortified with Alberta grain spirits. You will enjoy aromas of ripe fig, prunes and cardamom, with stewed cherries, ripe plum and hints of cinnamon and nutmeg on the palate, and a balanced and sweet finish. Tawny Port: This style of port uses red grapes but is aged in wooden barrels, exposing it to gradual oxidation and evaporation until a golden-color is obtained resulting in a nutty, caramelized flavour. Tawny port is blended in such a way that the finished product is a mixture of ages. Vintage Port: This style of port is made entirely from the grapes of an exceptional declared vintage year. It is typically aged in barrels initially, but then requires further aging of 10-40 years in the bottle. Vintage port is a collector’s favourite. White Port : A lighter style of port made in a wide variety of styles from dry to very sweet, white port is often enjoyed as an aperitif. Spanish Sherry From the sun-drenched region of Jerez in Spain comes Sherry, a fortified white wine with an incredible range of styles, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Sherry is produced using the solera aging system, which ages the wine over a period of at least 3 years. A series of 3–9 barrels are stacked vertically and the method involves moving 5-30% of the wine down from one barrel into the next one which blends wines of different vintages to ensure consistency and complexity. Different styles of sherry require a different number of transfers. At the end of the series, a portion of the final barrel is bottled and sold. Solera means “on the ground”, indicating that the bottom row contains the oldest Sherry. Types of Sherry: Fino (15-17% ABV): Light, dry, and crisp with a hint of almonds. Amontillado (15-17% ABV): Starts as a Fino but develops richer, nuttier flavours with age. Oloroso (17-22% ABV): Full-bodied, dark, and aromatic. Pedro Ximénez (15-22% ABV): Intensely sweet and perfect for drizzling over ice cream or sipping slowly. Lesser Known Fortified Wine Varieties While Port and Sherry often take the spotlight in discussions about fortified wines, there are several lesser-known varieties that offer unique flavours and cultural significance. These hidden gems are worth exploring for wine enthusiasts seeking something different: Madeira is a fortified wine from Portugal’s Madeira Islands, renowned for its caramelized, nutty flavours and remarkable longevity. It undergoes a unique aging process involving heat, which enhances its complexity. Its specific styles like Bual and Sercial showcase Madeira's diversity - Bual offers medium-sweet flavours of toffee and dried fruit, while Sercial is the driest Madeira, with crisp acidity and notes of citrus and almonds. Vermouth is an aromatic fortified wine infused with botanicals like herbs, spices, and citrus. Originating in Italy and France, it comes in dry and sweet styles and is widely used in cocktails, such as the Martini or Negroni, as well as enjoyed on its own as an aperitif. Marsala hailing from Sicily is a fortified wine with a rich history and versatility. Traditionally used in cooking, it also makes delightful sipping wine. Marsala comes in dry (secco), semi-dry (semisecco), and sweet (dolce) styles, with flavour notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits. Commandaria , often called the world's oldest named wine, originates from Cyprus. Made from sun-dried grapes, this sweet fortified wine boasts flavours of honey, dried figs, and spices. Its history dates back to the Crusades, and it remains a symbol of Cypriot winemaking heritage. Rancio Sec is a fortified wine from southern France and parts of Spain, known for its bold, oxidative character. The name "Rancio" refers to the wine's intentional exposure to air and heat, which develops unique flavours of roasted nuts, dried apricots, and umami. Pineau des Charentes from France's Cognac region and often enjoyed as an aperitif is a blend of fresh grape juice and Cognac. The result is a sweet, aromatic fortified wine with notes of honey, stone fruit, and floral undertones. These lesser-known fortified wines reveal the breadth of styles within the category, each with its own story and flavour profile. How to Enjoy Fortified Wines Fortified wines are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways: Sipping : Serve in small glasses to appreciate their concentrated flavours and aromas. Pairing : Fortified wines can complement a wide range of dishes: Port : Pair with blue cheese, dark chocolate, or nuts. Sherry: Match dry styles with tapas, olives, or seafood; sweet Sherry works with desserts or creamy cheeses. Madeira : Enjoy with roasted meats, mushrooms, or rich desserts. Vermouth: Serve with charcuterie, olives, or as a pre-meal aperitif. Cocktails : Fortified wines are excellent bases or modifiers in cocktails: Port: Try in a Port & Tonic with ice and a citrus garnish. Sherry: Use in a Sherry Cobbler with sugar, fruit, and crushed ice. Vermouth: Essential in classics like a Martini, Manhattan, or Negroni. Include in cooking: Fortified wines are fantastic in recipes: Sherry: Use for soups, sauces, or braised dishes. Madeira: Adds depth to gravies and reductions. Vermouth: Can enhance marinades and risottos. Storing and Serving Tips Fortified wines have a longer shelf life than regular wines due to their higher alcohol content, but they still benefit from proper storage. Keep them in a cool, dark place, and once opened, consume within a few weeks to maintain their optimal flavours. Serve the fortified wines at the right temperature. Dry Sherry and Vermouth are best chilled. Sweet fortified wines, like Tawny Port or Madeira, are often served slightly below room temperature. As a result of deep wood aging, many fortified wines will benefit from decanting and aeration before serving. Use the right glassware. A smaller glass (like a copita or port glass) concentrates the aromas and flavours. For cocktails, use traditional glassware such as a coupe or highball. Conclusion Fortified wines offer a world of flavours, histories, and traditions waiting to be explored. Whether you’re savouring a vintage Port, experimenting with a Sherry cocktail, or discovering a lesser-known fortified wine, these beverages invite you to slow down and appreciate the artistry behind every bottle. Cheers to the journey!

Building your own wine cellar is more than just a project—it’s a personal journey into the world of wine appreciation. The term “wine cellar” can conjure up images of a physical cellar in the basement of the house, however, when referring to a wine cellar, it can simply mean a wine collection. The actual storage of the bottles does not have to be in a physical cellar, but we discuss that in more detail later on. Starting a wine cellar can feel overwhelming, especially with the sheer variety of wines available. But building your first collection is an exciting opportunity to explore new flavours, learn about different styles, and discover your preferences. Whether you’re a casual enthusiast or planning to grow your cellar over time, this guide will help you stock it with versatile, beginner-friendly options that balance quality and value. Here’s how to get started on you first wine cellar or collection: 1. Define Your Purpose Before beginning construction or renovations on your space, or diving into shopping for bottles, think about what you want your wine cellar to accomplish. For Personal Enjoyment: If you love wine and want a curated collection to suit your taste, focus on your favourite regions and styles. For Investment: If you’re planning to collect high-value bottles, research wines that appreciate over time. For Entertaining : If your cellar will be a centerpiece for hosting, design it with aesthetics and accessibility in mind. Buy a variety of bottles that are versatile, able to pair with a wide range of food styles. 2. Choose the Right Location Wine thrives in the right environment. The location of your cellar is key to maintaining the quality of your bottles. If you don’t have a basement or suitable area, consider investing in a wine fridge or a small modular wine room. These are the key elements to consider, wherever the location of your cellar: Temperature: Keep your wines at a stable temperature, ideally between 10–15°C. If you’re serious about aging wine, consider installing a cooling unit designed for wine cellars. Humidity: Aim for 60–70% humidity to prevent corks from drying out. Invest in tools to monitor and maintain your cellar’s conditions. A thermometer and hygrometer will help you keep track of temperature and humidity levels. Light: Keep the space dark to protect wine from UV damage. Use dim, LED lighting that won’t damage your wines. Vibration-Free: Avoid placing your cellar near appliances or heavy foot traffic, as vibrations can disturb wine’s aging process. 3. Plan Your Storage System Wine storage is about more than just stacking bottles. A good system keeps your collection organized and accessible. Racks: Use wine racks made of wood or metal that store bottles horizontally to keep corks moist. Capacity: Start with more space than you think you’ll need. Collections grow quickly! Tracking: Tracking your collection ensures you drink your wines at their peak. Use a wine journal, spreadsheet, or app to record vintage, region and producer, price, and ideal drinking window. 4. Start Your Collection This is where the fun starts! Once your storage space is ready, it’s time to stock your cellar. Starting a wine cellar doesn’t mean you need to break the bank. Allocate your budget thoughtfully: Everyday Wines: $10–$30 per bottle. Mid-Range Collectibles: $30–$100 per bottle. Aging Wines and Splurges: $100+ per bottle. As your knowledge and budget grow, you can gradually add higher-end wines to your collection. Everyday Wines: Every wine cellar should include a selection of red, white and rosé wines that you can enjoy on any occasion. These should be approachable, versatile, and affordable options that pair well with a variety of meals. Or, simply choose everyday wines that you love. Red wines: A medium-bodied red like a Merlot or a Grenache offers soft tannins and fruit-forward flavours. Our aptly named “ Cellar Series Merlot ” or “ Cellar Series Malbec ” would both be perfect additions to your new wine cellar. White wines : Look for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc (such as our “ Cellar Series Fumé Blanc ” - exclusively available to club members), a light Pinot Gris for refreshing options, or a bright, full Chardonnay . Rosé: A light, medium-bodied Rosé is a must-have for warm weather or light fare. Dessert and Fortified wines: Sweet and fortified wines are essential for pairing with desserts or ending a meal on a high note. A Sauternes (a French sweet wine from the region of the same name in the Graves section in Bordeaux) or a Canadian Ice Wine will add rich, sweet options to your wine cellar. When choosing ports for your wine cellar, opt for a Ruby port for bold fruitiness, and Tawny for nuttier, aged flavours. Our non vintage ruby port-style wine was aged in French Oak for 3 years. You might also want to include Sherry. A dry Amontillado and a sweet Pedro Ximénez would provide a range of sweetness levels. Bubbles: Bubbles elevate any celebration or casual gathering. For the budget-friendly, sparkling wine , Italian prosecco or Spanish cava is ideal. Consider French Crémant or Champagne if you are wanting a higher end sparkling experience. Wines for Aging: One of the joys of having a wine cellar is watching your collection evolve over time. Add a few bottles with aging potential to appreciate the complexity that comes with maturity. Wines like Bordeaux, Barolo, or premium Chardonnays typically age beautifully for 5–10 years or more, developing richer and more nuanced flavours. Wines from Different Regions: Expand your palate and add depth to your collection by exploring wines from iconic regions such as: France - Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhône, Loire Valley Italy - Chianti Classico, Barolo, Amarone, Soave Spain - Rioja, Priorat, Albariño, Sherry New World - Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Oregon Pinot Noir, Australian Shiraz, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Experiment with Unique Varietals: Beginner cellars should include a few adventurous wines to encourage exploration. Look for lesser-known grape varieties or wines from emerging regions such as: Grüner Veltliner from Austria Chenin Blanc from South Africa Viognier from France, the USA, or Canada Gamay from Beaujolais, France Malbec from Argentina Tempranillo from Spain. 5. Enjoy The Journey Building a beginner’s wine cellar is a rewarding endeavor that is about exploration and enjoyment. Don’t worry about having the “perfect” collection right away. Start with wines you’re curious about and expand as you discover new favourites. By focusing on a mix of everyday wines, age-worthy bottles, and a touch of adventure, your beginner’s wine cellar will reflect your unique taste and personality, and be ready to provide both immediate satisfaction and long-term rewards. Cheers to your journey!