One wine that comes to mind with a 20% alcohol content is Marsala. Marsala is a fortified wine that originates from the beautiful island of Sicily in Italy. It is known for its rich and complex flavors, making it a popular choice for cooking as well as for sipping on its own.
Marsala gets its name from the city of Marsala, located on the western coast of Sicily. The wine has a long history, dating back to the late 18th century when British merchants started fortifying local Sicilian wines with brandy to preserve them during long sea voyages. This fortification process also increased the alcohol content of the wine, giving it a unique character.
To produce Marsala, local grape varieties such as Grillo, Catarratto, and Inzolia are typically used. The grapes are harvested and fermented, similar to the process of making regular table wine. However, the fermentation of Marsala is stopped before all the sugar is converted into alcohol by the addition of a neutral grape spirit or brandy. This fortification process boosts the alcohol content to around 20%.
The resulting wine is then aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year, although some Marsalas are aged for much longer. During the aging process, the wine develops a range of flavors and aromas, including notes of dried fruit, caramel, toasted nuts, and spices. The longer the aging, the more complex and intense these flavors become.
Marsala is categorized into different styles based on its sweetness and color. The sweetness levels range from dry (secco) to off-dry (semisecco) to sweet (dolce). The color can be either golden (oro) or amber (ambra), with the amber Marsalas typically being richer and more full-bodied.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Marsala is as an aperitif or dessert wine. Its natural sweetness and depth of flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to desserts like tiramisu or zabaglione. It can also be used as a versatile ingredient in cooking, adding depth and complexity to sauces, stews, and even desserts.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting Marsala on a trip to Sicily, and it truly left a lasting impression. The richness and complexity of flavors were unlike anything I had experienced before. I was particularly drawn to the amber-colored Marsala, which had a wonderful balance of sweetness and nutty undertones.
Marsala is a fortified wine from Sicily with an alcohol content of around 20%. It is known for its rich flavors and versatility in both drinking and cooking. Whether enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient, Marsala is sure to delight with its unique character and depth.