Cocktails with fortified wine

Cocktails with Fortified Wine are a diverse group of mixed drinks that incorporate fortified wines as a primary ingredient. Fortified wines, such as Port, Sherry, Vermouth, and Madeira, are wines to which a distilled spirit, usually brandy, has been added. This process not only increases the alcohol content but also enhances the flavor, making these wines a popular choice for crafting complex and flavorful cocktails.

History

The use of fortified wines in cocktails dates back to the 19th century, with the rise of cocktail culture in Europe and America. Vermouth, for example, became a staple ingredient in many classic cocktails, including the Martini and the Manhattan, thanks to its aromatic and herbal profile. Similarly, Sherry and Port found their way into various recipes, adding depth and sweetness to drinks.

Types of Fortified Wine Cocktails

Vermouth Cocktails

• Martini: A classic cocktail made with gin (or vodka) and dry vermouth, often garnished with an olive or a lemon twist.
• Negroni: A bitter cocktail consisting of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, usually garnished with an orange slice.

Sherry Cocktails

• Sherry Cobbler: An old-fashioned cocktail made with sherry, sugar, and citrus juice, served with crushed ice and garnished with fruit.
• Adonis: A low-alcohol cocktail made with sherry, sweet vermouth, and a dash of orange bitters.

Port Cocktails

• Porto Flip: A creamy cocktail made with Port, brandy, and egg yolk, typically garnished with grated nutmeg.
• Port and Tonic: A refreshing highball made with white Port and tonic water, often garnished with a slice of citrus or mint.

Madeira Cocktails

• Madeira Punch: A traditional punch made with Madeira wine, lemon juice, and sugar, often spiced with nutmeg or cinnamon.

Preparation and Serving

The preparation of cocktails with fortified wine varies widely, from simple highballs to more complex recipes requiring shaking or stirring with ice. The choice of glassware also varies, from the elegant martini glass for a Martini to the more casual highball glass for a Port and Tonic.

Popularity and Cultural Significance

Cocktails with fortified wine have enjoyed varying levels of popularity over the years, with a resurgence in interest as part of the broader craft cocktail movement. These drinks are appreciated for their complexity, versatility, and the depth of flavor they offer, making them a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

See Also

• Cocktail
• Fortified wine
• Mixology
• Bartending