About Fortified Wines

A fortified wine is one in which a neutral alcoholic spirit or grape brandy has been added to increase the alcoholic level. Famous examples include port, sherry and vermouth.

When the brandy or neutral spirit is added, alcohol increased from 14% to a level between 18% to 20%, taking them out of the table wine category. Fortified wines in many countries are thus taxed at a higher rate than table wines.

Top Picks for Fortified Wines

Pedroncelli 2012 Four Grapes Vintage Port Dry Creek Valley
91 points
$45
Dried fruits highlight this Port style wine that lingers with acidity and candied nuts; this would be an asset to any cheese board.
White Pine 2021 Mirage Reserve Sweet Red Dessert Wine Lake Michigan Shore
90 points
$19
A high quality domestic Port that will make any end of the evening a delight.
Awards: '2024 Michigan Governor's Cup - Best Fortified Wine'
Quady 2006 Starboard Dessert Wine California
88 points
$33
A very fun take on classic Port out of California; a touch lighter than its Portuguese brethren but delicious.
Apple Barn Winery NV Blackberry Dessert American
87 points
$28
Nice texture and complexity of fruit make this blackberry fortified wine a great choice for a range of desserts and cheeses, on its own, or in a cocktail.
Maan Farms Estate Winery NV Strawberry Dessert Wine Fraser Valley
87 points
$18.74
A fun and delicious ride of caramel strawberry from beginning to end.
87 points $18.74
Maan Farms Estate Winery NV Raspberry Dessert Wine Fraser Valley
87 points
$19.10
A rich, candied raspberry bramble beast for drinking or drizzling over your vanilla ice cream or sorbet.
87 points $19.10
Apple Barn Winery NV Apple Pie Dessert American
86 points
$28
Pommeau for after dinner, with cheese or in a cocktail spiking a pumpkin spice latte.
Wild Sun Winery NV 4th Release Icarus Tawny Dessert Wine Missouri
86 points
$75
An interesting flavor that is sweet, rich, and nutty.
Sobon Estate 2020 Port Zinfandel
86 points
$17
An interesting pairing with candied smoked duck in plum sauce.
Quady 2020 Essensia Orange Muscat
86 points
$24
Sugar and waves of floral orange; a good option for a dessert cheese board.