Marsala is a fortified wine from Sicily, Italy, made by adding a small amount of grape spirit to the wine to increase alcohol and stability.
It comes in styles ranging from dry to sweet, and colors from golden (Oro) to amber (Ambra) to ruby (Rubino).
Dry Marsala is often used in cooking, especially in dishes like chicken Marsala, while sweeter Marsala can be served as a dessert wine.
High-quality Marsala is aged for years in wooden barrels, developing flavors of nuts, caramel, dried fruit, and spice.
For beginners, think of Marsala as Italy’s answer to Sherry or Port, but with its own rich Sicilian character and strong connection to both the kitchen and the table.