Sack (wine)

Type of fortified wine

Falstaff enjoying sack, a type of fortified wine

Sack is an antiquated term for a type of fortified wine imported from mainland Europe, particularly from Spain and the Canary Islands, during the 16th and 17th centuries. The term "sack" is believed to have been derived from the Spanish "saca," meaning "extraction" from the solera system of aging wine. Sack was a popular beverage in England and was often associated with the Elizabethan era.

History

The history of sack is closely tied to the trade routes and political relationships between England and Spain. During the 16th century, English merchants began importing wines from the Iberian Peninsula, which were often fortified with brandy to preserve them during the long sea voyages. These wines, known as "sack," became fashionable in England and were frequently mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare and other contemporary writers.

Types of Sack

Sack was not a single type of wine but rather a category that included several varieties:

• Canary Sack: This was a sweet wine from the Canary Islands, known for its rich flavor and high sugar content.
• Malmsey Sack: A sweet, fortified wine made from the Malvasia grape, often associated with the island of Madeira.
• Sherris Sack: A dry or sweet wine from the region of Jerez de la Frontera in Spain, which is now known as sherry.

Production

The production of sack involved fortifying the wine with brandy, which increased its alcohol content and helped preserve it during transport. The wines were often aged in wooden casks, which contributed to their complex flavors. The solera system, a method of fractional blending, was commonly used to maintain consistency and quality in the wines.

Cultural Significance

Sack was a popular drink among the English upper classes and was often served at banquets and social gatherings. It was frequently referenced in literature and was considered a symbol of sophistication and refinement. The character Falstaff in Shakespeare's plays is famously associated with sack, often indulging in the drink to excess.

Decline and Legacy

By the late 17th century, the term "sack" began to fall out of use as more specific names for fortified wines, such as "sherry," became popular. However, the legacy of sack lives on in the cultural references and historical records of the period.

Related pages

• Sherry
• Fortified wine
• Brandy
• William Shakespeare