Malaga (wine)

Malaga is a sweet fortified wine originating from the Spanish city of Málaga, in Andalusia. It is produced under the Denominación de Origen (DO) Málaga and DO Sierras de Málaga.

Malaga wine is primarily made from Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel grapes, although other grape varieties are permitted. The production process often involves sun-drying the grapes to concentrate their sugars, resulting in a naturally sweet wine. Fortification with grape spirit raises the alcohol level, contributing to its characteristic intensity and longevity.

Historically, Malaga wines were widely appreciated and exported across Europe and the Americas. The industry suffered a decline in the late 19th century due to phylloxera, but has since seen a resurgence with renewed focus on quality production.

Malaga wines are typically classified based on sugar content (Dry, Semi-Dry, Sweet) and aging (Lágrima, Pálido, Dorado, Trasañejo, Añejo). They exhibit a range of flavors, from dried fruits and raisins to caramel and spice, depending on the specific production methods and aging process. Malaga wine is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or aperitif.