crossword clue fortified wine – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all the possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "fortified wine" to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue fortified wine" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PORT: A sweet, fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley of northern Portugal, often served as a dessert wine.
6 Letters
SHERRY: A fortified wine originally from Jerez, Spain, known for its wide range of styles from dry to very sweet.
7 Letters
MADEIRA: A fortified wine made on the Portuguese Madeira Islands, distinctive for being heated during its production process, giving it a unique caramelized flavor.
8 Letters
VERMOUTH: An aromatized, fortified wine, flavored with various botanicals. It is commonly used as an aperitif or in cocktails like martinis and Manhattans.
More About "fortified wine"
Fortified wines are a fascinating category of alcoholic beverages that have been enhanced with a distilled spirit, typically brandy, at some point during their production. This process serves multiple purposes: it can stop the fermentation, increasing the alcohol content and preserving the wine, and it often results in a richer, more complex flavor profile. The exact timing of the spirit addition determines whether the wine will be sweet (spirit added during fermentation, preserving residual sugars) or dry (spirit added after fermentation is complete).
Popular examples like Sherry, Port, Madeira, and Vermouth each have distinct origins, production methods, and flavor characteristics. Sherry, from Spain, ranges from dry Fino to sweet Pedro Ximénez. Port, from Portugal, is known for its sweetness and is often enjoyed as a dessert wine. Madeira, from its namesake island, is unique for its heating process, which gives it a long lifespan and distinct notes of caramel and nuts. Vermouth, an aromatized fortified wine, is crucial in many classic cocktails, adding herbal and spicy complexity.
Understanding these variations can not only help you solve crossword clues but also expand your appreciation for the world of wine.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Context: For clues like "fortified wine," think about specific regions (Spain for Sherry, Portugal for Port) or common uses (cocktails for Vermouth). This can narrow down your options significantly.
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required. If you're stuck between 'PORT' (4 letters) and 'SHERRY' (6 letters) for "fortified wine," the letter count will be your best guide.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes clues for common items like "fortified wine" might point to less common varieties or specific types. If the usual answers don't fit, think about more obscure or regional options.
- Look for Cross-References: Use intersecting words to confirm letters. If a letter is strong in another answer, it will help you confirm the 'fortified wine' answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a wine 'fortified'?
Fortified wine has a distilled spirit, usually brandy, added to it. This process stops fermentation, increases the alcohol content, and preserves the wine, often leading to a sweeter, richer flavor.
What are some common types of fortified wine found in crosswords?
Crossword puzzles often feature popular fortified wines like Sherry, Port, Madeira, and Vermouth. Knowing these common examples can give you a head start on related clues.
How do I approach a crossword clue about drinks or food?
When encountering food or drink clues, consider regions of origin, common brands, specific characteristics (like 'fortified' or 'dry'), and types of serving. Also, think about common synonyms or related terms.