Fortified wine

Fortified wine – Port, sherry and other wines with strength and character

Fortified wines are wines with soul, history and intensity. Here you will find our selection of port, sherry, vermouth and other fortified wines – ideal for cheese, dessert, relaxation and deep conversations. Fortified wines are characterised by higher alcohol (typically 16–20%) and often a more concentrated and full-bodied flavour profile. They can be sweet, semi-sweet or crisp dry – and the best ones can last for weeks after opening.

What is fortified wine?

Fortified wine (or “fortified wine”) is wine to which grape spirit is added during or after fermentation. This stops the fermentation and preserves residual sugar or changes the balance – depending on the style. The result is a stronger wine with a longer shelf life and intense flavor. Well-known examples are port, sherry, madeira, vermouth and marsala .

Port wine – sweetness and depth from the Douro

Port wine comes from the Douro Valley in Portugal and is typically rich, sweet and dark in taste. It is perfect with blue cheese, chocolate or just a nice glass in peace and quiet. You will find Ruby, Tawny, Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) and vintage ports in our range – often from small or classic houses.

Sherry – from knickknacks to dessert

Sherry is Spain's great gift to the world: from crisp Fino and Manzanilla to nutty Amontillado and the sweet, dark PX (Pedro Ximénez) . Many are discovering sherry as a food wine – both as an aperitif, with tapas, grilled fish or chocolate.

Other fortified wines in the selection

• Vermouth: spicy, aromatic and ideal as an aperitif or cocktail base
• Marsala: sweet and spicy wine from Sicily, often used for desserts and sauces
• Madeira: extremely durable and characterful wine from the island of Madeira

When do you drink fortified wine?

Fortified wine is versatile and can be used for many occasions:

• As an aperitif (especially dry sherry or vermouth)
• For cheese – especially blue cheese and hard cheeses
• For dessert – chocolate, nuts, fruit, ice cream
• As a cozy glass after dinner – instead of liqueur or cognac
• As a gift – special vintage port and vermouth in a beautiful bottle

Frequently asked questions about fortified wine

Is fortified wine always sweet?

No. Many people think so, but several types of fortified wine – like Fino sherry or dry vermouth – are completely dry. But classic port and Pedro Ximénez are typically sweet.

How long can fortified wine last after opening?

It depends on the type. Dry sherry lasts 3–5 days, while sweet port or Madeira often lasts several weeks or months. Best stored in a cool, dark place.

Should fortified wine be drunk from special glasses?

You don't need to – but small tulip-shaped glasses or dessert wine glasses will bring out the aromas best. Avoid wine glasses or cognac glasses that are too large.

Buy fortified wine online at dhwines.dk

At dhwines.dk we have selected our fortified wines with the same approach as our other range: personality, quality and character rather than mass production. You will find both classics and exciting alternatives – and we ship from our own warehouse with fast and safe delivery.

Summary

• Port wine, sherry, vermouth, Madeira, etc.
• Sweet, dry and everything in between
• Perfect for food, dessert, cheese and coziness
• Long shelf life after opening
• Unique selection from small and classic producers

Explore a world of fortified wines with depth, warmth and personality – and find your new favorite here at dhwines.dk.