What's the Best Substitute for Madeira Wine?
Whether you're out of Madeira Wine or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Fortified wine from Madeira with nutty, caramel flavors, used in cooking and as an aperitif In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for Madeira wine are sherry, port wine, or Marsala wine depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Madeira Wine
Sherry
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- marinades
- desserts
Description
Fortified wine with similar nutty, complex flavors
Very similar to Madeira. Use dry sherry for savory dishes, sweet sherry for desserts.
Port Wine
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- sauces
- marinades
- cooking
Description
Fortified wine with similar richness and depth
Sweeter than Madeira but similar richness. Good for desserts and sweet sauces.
Marsala Wine
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- marinades
- Italian dishes
Description
Italian fortified wine with similar nutty, complex flavors
Very similar to Madeira. Use dry Marsala for savory dishes, sweet Marsala for desserts.
Brandy + Sugar
Ratio
1:1 with 1 tsp sugar per 2 oz brandy
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- marinades
- desserts
Description
Fortified spirit with added sweetness to match Madeira
Add sugar to brandy to approximate Madeira's sweetness. Good for cooking applications.
White Wine + Brandy
Ratio
1:1 with 1/4 brandy to 3/4 white wine
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- marinades
- emergency substitution
Description
Mix white wine with brandy for similar fortified wine profile
Mix 3/4 white wine with 1/4 brandy. Add sugar if sweetness is needed.
Red Wine + Brandy
Ratio
1:1 with 1/4 brandy to 3/4 red wine
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- marinades
- desserts
Description
Mix red wine with brandy for similar fortified wine profile
Mix 3/4 red wine with 1/4 brandy. Add sugar if sweetness is needed.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Madeira Wine, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Madeira is perfect for deglazing pans when making sauces
Great for making Madeira sauce and other pan sauces
Use in marinades for meats, especially beef and game
Madeira adds depth to soups and stews
Perfect for making Madeira cake and other desserts
Store opened Madeira in the refrigerator for up to 6 months
Madeira pairs well with mushrooms, onions, and herbs
Great for making Madeira-glazed vegetables
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications