Instructor: Eva Hudson

Tasting Type: Sit Down*

Fortified wines are amongst the most traditional, historically relevant and culturally formative beverages in the world. In the 13th Century, one Arnaud de Villeneuve pioneered the technique of adding brandy to table wine to bolster and preserve it. When Christopher Columbus sailed to the New World in the 15th Century, he toasted with Sherry. Early Madeira wines were aged on the decks of 16th century ships and the style was a favourite of Thomas Jefferson. 
Far too often, fortified wines are forgotten until called upon as an ingredient for a recipe, and too many wine lovers erroneously associate fortifieds with the dusty bottle that sits at the back of their relative's liquor cabinet. In general, the category is sorely misunderstood, but an exemplary fortified wine has the ability to convert the most cynical drinker into a devoted partisan.
Join Eva to explore the fascinating world of fortified wines by tasting haunting examples, both dry and sweet, while discussing the utility of these fascinating and often precious elixirs.

Cancellation Policy: If you are unable to attend and call prior to one week of the event then we will give you store credit for the amount paid. There will be no refund or credit given within one week of the event. You are more than welcome, however, to send another adult in your place.

*We offer two styles of wine tastings:
Our festival style tastings are stand-up, casual events with approximately 40 guests in attendance. This style of tasting naturally allows for more socializing and mingling among guests.
Our sit-down tastings are wine-focused and contain more educational content. These tastings cater to approximately 15 people.