Exploring the World of Dessert Wines

By David Gadd | Published on 2022-09-30

Welcome to the world of dessert wines! From sweet reds to honey-flavored whites, dessert wines are a delicious way to end a meal. Whether you're looking for a special treat to pair with chocolate or a classic fortified wine to sip after dinner, there's something for everyone in the world of dessert wines. In this article, we'll explore the different types of dessert wines, from white and red to fortified and sweet. We'll also look at some of the most famous dessert wines, and how to pair them with chocolate. So, grab a glass and let's dive into the delicious world of dessert wines!

Types of Dessert Wine

Dessert wines are a type of wine that is typically sweet and served after a meal. They come in a variety of styles and can be made from a variety of grapes. The most common types of dessert wines are white and red, but there are also fortified and sparkling varieties.

White dessert wines are typically made from white grapes such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Chenin Blanc. These wines are usually sweet and can range from light and fruity to rich and honeyed. They are often served with desserts such as cakes, ice cream, and fruit.

Red dessert wines are made from red grapes such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines are usually sweet and can range from light and fruity to rich and jammy. They are often served with desserts such as chocolate, cheesecake, and pies. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat.

White Dessert Wine

White dessert wines are a type of sweet wine that is made from white grapes. These wines are usually made from grapes that have been affected by noble rot, a type of fungus that causes the grapes to shrivel and become sweeter. This type of wine is usually light-bodied and has a high sugar content, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a sweet wine.

One of the most popular white dessert wines is Muscadet. This French wine is made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape and is known for its crisp and refreshing flavor. Muscadet is often served as an aperitif or with seafood dishes. It is also a great pairing for fruit-based desserts.

Another popular white dessert wine is Gewürztraminer. This German wine is made from the Gewürztraminer grape and has a distinct floral aroma. Gewürztraminer is a great choice for those who enjoy a sweeter wine, as it has a high sugar content and a low acidity. It pairs well with spicy dishes and is a great accompaniment to desserts like cheesecake and apple pie.

Red Dessert Wine

Red dessert wines are some of the most popular and widely enjoyed types of dessert wines. These wines are made from red grapes and can range from sweet to very sweet. They are often characterized by their deep, dark color and intense flavors. Red dessert wines can be made from a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel.

One of the most popular red dessert wines is Dolcetto, a sweet Italian wine made from the Dolcetto grape. Dolcetto wines are usually light-bodied and have a fruity flavor with hints of cherry, raspberry, and blackberry. They are often served with desserts such as tiramisu or chocolate cake.

Another popular red dessert wine is Port, a fortified wine made from a blend of grapes. Port is typically sweet and has a deep, rich flavor with notes of raisins, figs, and plums. It is often served with chocolate desserts, cheeses, and nuts. Port is also a great choice for sipping after dinner.

Famous Dessert Wines

When it comes to famous dessert wines, there are a few that stand out from the crowd. Sauternes, a sweet white wine from the Bordeaux region of France, is one of the most renowned dessert wines in the world. This wine is made from grapes affected by a type of fungus called noble rot, which gives it its distinctive flavor and aroma. It pairs well with foie gras, blue cheese, and other rich dishes.

Another famous dessert wine is Tokaji, a sweet white wine from Hungary. This wine is made from grapes affected by botrytis, a type of fungus that gives the wine its unique flavor and aroma. Tokaji pairs well with fruit desserts, such as apple pie or poached pears.

Finally, Port is a fortified dessert wine from Portugal. This wine is made from grapes that have been fermented with brandy, giving it a sweet and robust flavor. Port pairs well with chocolate desserts, such as brownies or truffles. It can also be enjoyed on its own or with a cheese plate.

Sweet Red Dessert Wine

Sweet red dessert wines are a delightful treat for those who enjoy a sweet finish to their meal. These wines are made from red grapes, typically with a higher sugar content than regular table wines. The grapes are left on the vine longer to allow the sugars to concentrate and develop a unique flavor profile. Sweet red dessert wines are typically full-bodied and have a rich, velvety texture.

One of the most popular sweet red dessert wines is Dolcetto. This Italian wine is made from the Dolcetto grape, which is known for its intense sweetness. The wine is usually aged in oak barrels, which adds a hint of smokiness and spice to the flavor. Dolcetto wines are usually served chilled and pair well with chocolate desserts.

Another popular sweet red dessert wine is fortified wine. This type of wine is made by adding a distilled spirit, such as brandy, to the wine. This process increases the alcohol content and adds a unique flavor to the wine. Fortified wines are usually served at room temperature and pair well with desserts such as crème brûlée or fruit tarts.

Dolcetto Wines

Dolcetto wines are a type of Italian dessert wine that are known for their sweet, fruity flavor. They are made from the Dolcetto grape, which is native to the Piedmont region of Italy. Dolcetto wines are typically dry, with a light body and a slightly bitter finish. They are usually served chilled and are best enjoyed with desserts or as an aperitif.

Dolcetto wines are typically a deep ruby red color, with aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and blackberries. The taste is sweet and fruity, with notes of blackberry, raspberry, and cherry. The finish is slightly bitter, with a hint of almond. Dolcetto wines are often blended with other Italian dessert wines, such as Moscato d'Asti and Brachetto.

Dolcetto wines are a great choice for pairing with chocolate desserts. The sweetness of the wine complements the richness of the chocolate, creating a perfect balance. Dolcetto wines are also great for sipping on their own, or for enjoying with a variety of cheeses. They are a great way to end a meal, or to enjoy as an aperitif.

Fortified Dessert Wine

Fortified dessert wines are a unique type of wine that are made with the addition of a distilled spirit, such as brandy or sherry. This process of fortification increases the alcohol content of the wine, giving it a more intense flavor and aroma. These wines are usually sweeter than other types of wine, and are often served as an after-dinner drink.

Fortified dessert wines are made from a variety of grapes, including Muscat, Malvasia, and Pedro Ximénez. These grapes are usually harvested late in the season, when they are naturally sweeter and have higher sugar content. The grapes are then fermented and fortified with the addition of a distilled spirit. This process creates a unique flavor profile, with notes of dried fruits, honey, and spices.

Fortified dessert wines are often served with desserts, such as chocolate cake or fruit tarts. They also pair well with cheeses, such as blue cheese or brie. The sweetness of the wine complements the richness of the cheese, creating a delicious combination. Fortified dessert wines are also great for sipping on their own, as they are often quite sweet and have a smooth, velvety texture.

Pairing with Chocolate

Chocolate and dessert wines are a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the wine and the richness of the chocolate combine to create a decadent and indulgent experience. Pairing the right dessert wine with the right chocolate can elevate the experience even further.

When pairing chocolate with dessert wine, it is important to consider the type of chocolate and the sweetness of the wine. Dark chocolate pairs well with a sweet dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a fortified wine like Port. Milk chocolate is best paired with a slightly sweeter wine, such as a Muscat or a Moscato. White chocolate pairs best with a sweeter dessert wine, such as a Sauternes or a Vin Santo.

When pairing chocolate and dessert wine, it is also important to consider the flavor notes of the wine. For instance, a dessert wine with notes of honey and caramel will pair well with a milk chocolate that has a similar flavor profile. Similarly, a dessert wine with notes of citrus and stone fruit will pair well with a dark chocolate that has a similar flavor profile. Experimenting with different combinations is a great way to find the perfect pairing.

Conclusion

Dessert wines are a unique and delicious way to end a meal. Whether you are looking for a sweet white, a red, or a fortified wine, there is a variety of dessert wines to choose from. From the famous noble rot dessert wines to the sweet red Dolcetto wines, there is something for everyone. And don’t forget to pair your dessert wine with chocolate for an extra special treat. With so many options, you can explore the world of dessert wines and find the perfect one for you.