Sweet wines perfect for dessert!
From birthdays to weddings, dessert is an essential part of any celebration. And what better way to top off a delicious meal than with a glass of sweet and luscious dessert wine? Whether you prefer fruity flavors or rich, complex notes, there is a dessert wine out there for everyone. Here are just a few to consider.
Late Harvest Wines
Late harvest wines are made from grapes that are left on the vine longer than usual, allowing them to fully ripen and develop complex flavors. This results in a wine that is naturally sweet and rich. Late harvest Rieslings are a popular choice, with flavors ranging from honey and apricot to peach and citrus. Late harvest Zinfandels and Syrahs are also worth trying, with notes of dried fruit and chocolate.
Ice Wines
Ice wines are made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine. This concentrates the juice inside, resulting in a wine that is intensely sweet and packed with flavor. Ice wine is typically made from white grape varietals such as Riesling, Vidal Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. These wines are a great choice for those who prefer a sweeter dessert wine but still want a balanced acidity.
Port Wines
Port wines are fortified wines from Portugal that are typically served after dinner. They are made by adding a neutral spirit, such as brandy, to the wine during fermentation. This stops the fermentation process and leaves residual sugar in the wine, resulting in a sweet and rich flavor. Port wines range from ruby red to tawny in color, with flavors of cherry, plum, and chocolate. They are typically served with cheese or chocolate desserts.
Muscat Wines
Muscat wines are made from the Muscat grape and are known for their floral aromas and sweet flavor. Muscat wines can be made in a variety of styles, from light and effervescent to rich and syrupy. Moscato d'Asti is a popular choice, especially among those who prefer a sweeter wine. These wines pair well with fruit-based desserts and cheese plates.
Sauternes and Tokaji Wines
Sauternes and Tokaji wines are made using a unique process called botrytization, where the grapes are infected by a fungus that dehydrates them, giving them a sweet and concentrated flavor. Sauternes wines are made in the Bordeaux region of France and are known for their golden color and flavors of honey and apricot. Tokaji wines are made in the Tokaj region of Hungary and have flavors of honey, apricot, and ginger.
In conclusion, there are many different types of sweet wines that are perfect for dessert. From the crisp and fruity late harvest Riesling to the rich and complex flavors of Port wine, there is a dessert wine out there to suit any taste. So why not treat yourself to a glass of something sweet the next time you're enjoying dessert? You won't be disappointed!