How long will fortified wine keep?

Fortified wines, due to their higher alcohol content, generally have a longer shelf life than unfortified wines. Here's a breakdown:

Opened Bottles:

* Port: 3-5 years if stored properly in a cool, dark place.

* Sherry: 1-2 years if stored properly in a cool, dark place.

* Madeira: Can last for decades, especially if stored in a cool, dark place.

Unopened Bottles:

* Port: Most ports, especially vintage ports, can age for decades and often improve with time.

* Sherry: Can last for several years, especially if stored in a cool, dark place.

* Madeira: Can last for decades and sometimes even centuries, developing unique characteristics over time.

Factors affecting shelf life:

* Storage Conditions: Cool, dark, and dry conditions are ideal.

* Type of Wine: Some fortified wines, like vintage port, are made to age and will improve with time. Others, like some sherries, are meant to be consumed young.

* Bottle Closure: Cork closures are generally preferred over screw caps.

Signs of spoilage:

* Appearance: The wine may become cloudy or develop a sediment.

* Smell: The wine may develop an unpleasant, vinegary odor.

* Taste: The wine may taste sour, bitter, or oxidized.

Important Notes:

* Vintage Ports: These wines are best enjoyed after 10-15 years of aging.

* Sherry: The "fino" and "manzanilla" styles are best enjoyed young, while "oloroso" and "amontillado" can be aged for longer.

* Madeira: This wine is unique in that it is deliberately heated during production, which helps it develop complex flavors.

Conclusion:

While fortified wines generally have a longer shelf life than unfortified wines, it's always best to store them properly to maximize their lifespan. It's also important to note that different fortified wines have different aging potential. Enjoy your fortified wines responsibly and savor their complex flavors!