By Malvina Demaj Last Updated: Mar 6, 2026

Marsala

(maa-saa-luh)
DEFINITION

Marsala

Marsala refers to a fortified wine produced from indigenous grapes like Grillo, Inzolia and Catarratto in the region surrounding Marsala in Sicily, Italy. It is fortified with grape spirits and typically has 15-20% alcohol by volume. It is a DOC certified wine, classified by color into Oro (gold), Amber (amber) and Rubino (ruby). Marsala ranges from dry styles which are used for making rich sauces, to sweeter versions drunk as dessert wines. Common tasting notes include brown sugar, vanilla, tamarind and stewed apricot.

Did you know? Marsala was once used as a medicinal tonic in US pharmacies during the prohibition.

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