Sack (wine)

Introduction

Sack (wine) is a term that was historically used to refer to a type of fortified wine imported from mainland Spain or the Canary Islands. The term is now obsolete, and it was most commonly used in the 16th and 17th centuries.

History

The term "sack" originated from the Spanish word "saco", which means "a sack or bag". It was used to describe the bags in which the wine was shipped. The first known use of the term "sack" to refer to wine is in an English Act of Parliament in 1553.

Shakespeare made several references to sack in his plays, indicating the popularity of the drink during the Elizabethan era. In the "Merry Wives of Windsor", Sir John Falstaff is a notorious consumer of sack.

Types of Sack Wine

There were several types of sack wine, including:

• Canary sack: This was a sweet wine produced in the Canary Islands. It was considered the finest type of sack.
• Malaga sack: This was a sweet wine produced in Malaga, Spain.
• Palm sack: This was a type of sack produced in Palma, the capital of Mallorca.

Production

Sack wines were typically fortified, meaning they had a higher alcohol content than regular wines. This was achieved by adding distilled spirits, usually brandy, to the wine during fermentation.

Consumption and Decline

Sack was often consumed in taverns and was a popular choice for festive occasions. However, by the 18th century, the popularity of sack had declined. This was due to a variety of factors, including changes in taste and the rise of other types of fortified wines, such as port and sherry.

Conclusion

While sack is no longer produced today, it holds an important place in the history of wine. It was a popular drink in its time and is a testament to the evolving tastes and preferences of wine drinkers.

See Also

• History of wine
• Fortified wine
• Spanish wine
• Canary wine