Marsala
Marsala wine is a fortified wine from the Sicilian town of Marsala, Italy.
Production
Marsala is made from a blend of local grapes, usually Grillo, Cataratto, and Inzolia, that are fortified with neutral grape brandy and sweetened. The grapes are grown in the Trapani region of Sicily, which is known for its warm climate, coastal breezes, and fertile soils.
Styles
Marsala can range from dry to sweet (secco, semisecco, and dolce) and can be pale gold, russet amber, or deep ruby red in color. The style of Marsala is determined by when the brandy is added during the fermentation process.
Uses
Marsala is a versatile cooking wine that adds a sweet, nutty, fruity flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. It's often used in sauces and puddings.
Quality
The Italian government's Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) strictly controls the production of Marsala and determines the areas in which it can be made.
Marsala has been made in Sicily since the late 18th century, but it wasn't until 1969 that the region became a DOC.
