dessert wines that will surprise you
The World of Dessert Wines
When it comes to wine, most people think about the classics: red, white, and rosé. But there is a whole other world of wine that often goes overlooked: dessert wine. Dessert wine, or pudding wine, is a sweet wine that is typically served with dessert or as a dessert on its own. It's a decadent treat that can really elevate a meal.
There are a variety of different types of dessert wine, each with its own unique flavor profile and serving suggestions. Some of the most popular dessert wines include port, sherry, sauternes, and ice wine. While these wines are certainly delicious, there are also some more unusual dessert wines out there that are definitely worth trying.
Unusual Dessert Wines
Marsala
Marsala is a fortified wine that hails from the Italian island of Sicily. It's made by adding brandy to wine to increase its alcohol content and prolong its shelf life. Marsala comes in both sweet and dry varieties, but the sweet version is best suited for dessert. It has a rich, nutty flavor with notes of caramel and dried fruit, making it a perfect pairing for desserts like tiramisu or bread pudding.
Muscat
Muscat is a white wine that is made from muscat grapes. What sets it apart from other white wines is its intense floral aroma. It's often described as having notes of orange blossom, jasmine, and honeysuckle. Muscat can be made in a variety of different styles, from dry to sweet. The sweet version is perfect for dessert, with its honeyed flavor and fruit-forward notes. It pairs well with light desserts like fruit tarts or custards.
Pedro Ximénez
Pedro Ximénez, or PX for short, is a sweet sherry from Spain. It's made by sun-drying grapes until they are almost raisins, which concentrates their sugars. The resulting wine is dark and syrupy, with flavors of figs, dates, and caramel. PX is a great choice for rich, chocolatey desserts like flourless chocolate cake or chocolate mousse.
Pairing Dessert Wine with Dessert
When it comes to pairing dessert wine with dessert, there are a few general rules to keep in mind. First, the wine should be sweeter than the dessert. If the dessert is sweeter than the wine, it will make the wine taste sour or bitter. Second, try to match the flavor profiles of the wine and dessert. For example, a citrusy dessert will pair well with a wine that has citrus notes.
Here are some dessert and dessert wine pairing suggestions:
- Apple pie with ice wine
- Crème brûlée with Sauternes
- Brownies with port
- Strawberry shortcake with Moscato d'Asti
- Panna cotta with Marsala
Conclusion
There are so many different types of dessert wine out there, each with its own unique flavor profile. From the nutty richness of Marsala to the floral notes of Muscat, dessert wine is the perfect way to cap off a meal in style. By following a few simple pairing rules, you can create a delicious dessert and wine experience that will surprise and delight your guests.