Work out fortification spirit addition instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Fortification is a two-component alcohol balance: spirit volume = wine volume x (target - wine ABV) / (spirit ABV - target). Fortifying a fermenting must arrests fermentation by killing the yeast, which is how port and other sweet fortified wines retain residual sugar.
Fortification blend
Spirit volume = wine volume x (target ABV - wine ABV) / (spirit ABV - target ABV)
Production and fortification of alcoholic beverages is licensed and subject to excise duty. Alcohol content must be verified by an approved method.
For sweet styles, during fermentation once the desired sugar remains — around 6-8% ABV for port. For dry styles such as fino sherry, after fermentation is complete.
Not quite. Mixing ethanol and water causes a small volume contraction, so the actual blend is marginally less than the sum. For custody and duty purposes, alcohol tables must be used.