Much fortified wine was born out of a need to preserve fragile wines on long voyages over land and sea. The presence of alcohol in excess of 15% by volume has a preservative effect on wine. Often sweet, but not always so, fortified wine is usually reserved for after dinner, where it is the accompaniment to dessert or cheese. At this event we will discover many fortified wines from a variety of regions and styles, both sweet and dry. We will also have a selection of artisanal cheeses, breads and chocolates to complement the wines.