16 Ways to Pair Wine with Your Favorite Desserts
‘How long does a bottle of wine last once it has been opened?’ is a question we are asked quite frequently. Even though certain wines can keep their freshness for extended periods of time, the most straightforward universal response is one or two days. For the sake of this essay, we’ll assume that you’ve just resealed the bottle with the cork from the start (with the exception of sparkling wine). Several variables influence the length of time it takes for a bottle of wine to lose its freshness.
A quick introduction is necessary initially.
From the winery to your cellar to your refrigerator, the flavor of a wine will change dramatically.
When air comes into contact with wine after the bottle has been opened, it causes the color to shift, the scent to diminish, and the tastes to become more muted and bland.
- Remember that the goal of this post is to calculate how long a bottle of wine will remain fresh – or, in other words, how long it will remain a true depiction of the freshly opened bottle – before it becomes stale.
- Although it is no longer fresh, it may still be safe to consume or cook with it.
- If you have a sparkling wine stopper, you should be able to enjoy it for up to 48 hours after it is opened, on average.
- It also loses a significant amount of carbonation with each opening.
- The pace at which dry wines oxidize is influenced by a variety of variables.
- Left on the counter, most wines will expire sooner than those kept in the refrigerator.
- Sweet wines can retain their freshness for longer periods of time than dry wines because sugar acts as an antioxidant.
- Ruby Port and Vintage Port are intended to display fresher fruit tastes than other varieties of port, and they deteriorate more quickly than Tawny Port and Madeira, respectively.
- The wine’s character is influenced by the flavors created by oxidation.
- Please keep in mind that each wine is unique, and the environment in which the wine is stored after opening has an impact on how long it may be enjoyed.
If you want to avoid squandering a nice bottle of wine, it’s advisable to follow this guideline and, if in doubt, taste it first before throwing it away (see illustration).
1.Chocolate Chip Cookies – Cabernet Sauvignon
Photograph courtesy of Scott Harrington When paired with a fruity red wine like Cabernet, the all-time classicchocolate chip cookie is the greatest. Our recommendation: Barefoot Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon ($4.97).
2.Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – Pinot Noir
Taku took the photograph. Although it is not everyone’s favorite cookie, it is a childhood favorite nonetheless. The raisins are a fantastic match for a red wine like pinot noir. Woodbridge Mondavi Pinot Noir ($5.49) is our selection.
3.Brownies – Merlot
Jeffery W. took the photograph. The rich chocolate flavor of brownies is an excellent pairing with a dark red wine such as Merlot. Yellow Tail Merlot ($5.99) is our top selection.
4.Vanilla Cake – Chardonnay
Clever Cupcakes provided the image for this post. Vanilla cake is light and simple, which makes it a perfect match for the classic Chardonnay flavor. Our recommendation: Flop Chardonnay ($4.49).
5.Red Velvet Cake – Red Velvet Wine
Vnysla took the photograph. What could be better than a glass of red velvet wine to accompany a slice of red velvet cake? Our choice is: Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet Wine ($13.99) is a delicious red wine made with red velvet cupcakes.
6.Chocolate Cake – Cabernet Sauvignon
Jacqs Carroll captured this image. A chocolate cake goes nicely with the earthy aromas of a good Cabernet Sauvignon, and vice versa. Woodbridge Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon ($5.49) is our selection.
7.Cheesecake –Riesling
Ulterior provided the photograph. Because of the smoothness of cheesecake, it is difficult to pair it with a wide variety of wines. However, fortunately for us, the fruity and light texture of the Riesling matches the richer flavors of the cheesecake well. Yellow Tail Riesling ($5.99) is our top selection.
8.Pumpkin Pie – Sherry
Emma Delaney captured this image. Pumpkin pie is a popular fall dessert that is always a hit. When hosting a family event, consider serving sherry as a wine option. The pie’s spices are enhanced by the sweetness of the wine. Our choice is: Taylor Sherry Dry ($6.99) is a dry sherry made by Taylor Sherry.
9.Tiramisu – Champagne
Alexis Fam captured this image. Tiramisu is one of the most elegant desserts available, thus it is only fitting that it be paired with champagne. Andre Brut ($4.77) is our selection.
10.Sorbet – Pink Moscato
Angela Scheidel took the photograph. The majority of wines are unable to stand up to the tartness and fruitiness of sorbets, according to Randall Try a beautiful pink moscato to bring it all together. Our choice is: Pink Moscato Bubbly from Barefoot Cellars is $4.97.
11.Chocolate Ice Cream – Chocolate Wine
Morgan Schutt captured this image. Due to the smoothness of chocolate ice cream, it is difficult to combine it with a dry white wine. Pairing it with a chocolate red wine can help to remedy the situation. (Yes, such a thing exists!) Our choice is: Red Decadence Chocolate Wine ($10.99) is a dessert wine made with chocolate.
12.Vanilla Ice Cream – Cream Sherry
Elana Amsterdam captured this image. Any variety of toppings can be placed on top of vanilla ice cream, including cream sherry, to make it a one-stop shop. Fairbanks Cream Sherry ($8.99) is our favorite.
13.Apple Pie – Moscato
Photograph courtesy of Winston Wong The sweetened apples in this classic American dish need the use of a sweet wine to match.
When it comes to apple pie, Moscato is the ideal light wine to pair with it. Our choice is: Moscato from Barefoot Cellars ($6.99)
14.White Chocolate – Pink Moscato
The image is courtesy of lindtusa.com. Because white chocolate does not contain any cocoa solids, it is more expensive than other forms of chocolate. A highly sweet wine like pink moscato, for example, is an excellent pairing with this dish. Our choice is: Andre Strawberry is available for $4.99.
15.Milk Chocolate – Port
Featured image courtesy of hersheys.com Milk chocolate is the stuff of childhood memories for many people. If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, consider a sweeter Port. We guarantee that it will not overshadow the chocolate. Taylor’s Tawny Port ($6.99) is our recommendation.
16.Dark chocolate – Zinfandel
Siona Karen captured this image. Dark chocolate and a powerful red wine go together like peanut butter and jelly. The rich notes of Zinfandel are well complemented by the dark flavors of dark chocolate. Our favorite is the Barefoot Cellars Zinfandel ($4.97), which is made in California. All prices are taken directly from the Total Wine and More website.
What Kind of Dessert Goes Well With a Cabernet?
Images courtesy of Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images Wines manufactured from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are often full-bodied and robust in flavor. It is made in red wine, which is one of the most frequent and popular types of wine, with vineyards located all over the world. Cabernet is most commonly served with major meals such as meat and pasta dishes, but the full-bodied flavor with fruit tones makes it a good match for a variety of rich sweets as well as a variety of savory foods. Sweets that are delicate or highly sweet are frequently overshadowed by Cabernet Sauvignon; thus, pick desserts that are powerful enough to enhance and compliment the rich taste of the wine.
Chocolate
Chocolate and red wine go together like peanut butter and jelly, and your dessert may be as easy as serving a platter of chocolate truffles beside a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon at your event. Dark chocolate holds up nicely against the richness of the wine. A fondue created with dark chocolate provides a wide range of flavors for customers. Serve it with strawberries, slices of chocolate pound cake, and a Cabernet Sauvignon with fruity undertones to complement it. Serve a souffle cooked with bittersweet chocolate and topped with shavings from a high-quality dark chocolate bar as an exquisite dessert.
Fruit
Fruits that are dark and strong go nicely with red wine. Create dishes that include dark berries, such as blackberries or dried cherries, as the main ingredient. Chocolate mousse is topped with marionberry syrup and slivered almonds, which is served with Cabernet for a rich and sophisticated dessert. For something more straightforward, try dipping strawberries in dark chocolate or just serving a bowl of perfectly ripe raspberries. A delicious black cherry pie wrapped in a thick pastry shell is the perfect accompaniment to a glass of Cabernet.
Baked Goods
If you’re serving baked pastries with red wine, you want them to be rich and decadent. A rich chocolate torte created without the use of flour is a delectable treat that pairs perfectly with Cabernet. A simple chocolate cake topped with a pomegranate glaze may not be nearly as rich as a torte, but the chocolate and fruit are a perfect match for red wine, since the chocolate and fruit compliment the wine.
A rich chocolate cake with a mousse filling and a ganache topping may stand up to a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon without falling apart. Serve Cabernet with red velvet cupcakes or cupcakes studded with currants as an after-dinner dessert to bring the evening to a casual close.
Cheese
An elegant way to conclude a dinner when you don’t desire something sweet for dessert but yet want to impress your guests, a cheese plate is an excellent solution. Provide a selection of specialty cheeses, as well as nuts and a dish of pomegranate seeds, to your guests. Wine and nuts go together like peanut butter and jelly. The rich, strong taste of the fruit, along with the saltiness of the nuts (almonds and hazelnuts), make a delicious pairing. When it comes to stronger cheeses such as Brie, go for Gouda, light creamy cheeses, and old Irish cheeses on your tray.
References Biography of the Author Maria Christensen has been writing professionally since 1997, specializing in business, history, gastronomy, culture, and travel for a variety of media.
Christensen received his bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Washington and his master’s degree in history from Armstrong Atlantic State University.
6 Dessert and Wine Pairings
It’s no secret that some wines don’t go well with particular sweets, but there are some exceptions. A good match, on the other hand, can enhance the tastes of both the wine and the dessert if you choose the proper mix. When choosing a wine to match with your dessert, a good rule of thumb is to choose wines that have comparable characteristics. Achieving a harmonious balance between these flavors and tones is essential for elevating your dessert game to an entirely new level. When it comes to selecting the perfect wine for dessert, be imaginative.
- A variety of grapes, such as Riesling, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Moscato, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, as well as various mixes, are excellent alternatives.
- Wines that are much brighter or darker in color than the dessert you’ve chosen may typically be eliminated from consideration.
- Peach cobblers, on the other hand, should be served with light red wines such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
- The wine’s tasting notes should include a list of flavors that correspond to the flavors of your sweets, so you know you’re on the right road.
- Alternatively, the tastes of coffee or chocolate (which can be found in most dark red wines) would combine nicely with dark chocolate treats such as Ellena’s Chocolate Magma, which is made with dark chocolate.
- Whatever your sugar cravings are, whether you’re a cookie monster, a chocolate enthusiast, or simply like the odd sugar indulgence, you’re in luck.
A selection of beloved desserts has been paired with the most complementary wine from your favorite local vineyard in this guide. All right, let’s get this party started!
- Chocolate and red wine go together like peanut butter and jelly. Nothing like a warm, gooey brownie that has just come out of the oven. When served with a dark red wine such as our Mike’s Reserve Red, brownies are transformed into a culinary masterpiece. Red wines that have a chocolatey undertone are very appealing, and you’ll know what I’m talking about when you sample one. A package of chocolate lava cake or brownie mix is a quick and easy way to make a delectable dessert that is also healthy. Fresh fruit (such as strawberries) and whipped cream on top can be added as an extra touch. My recommendation: Latah Creek is a tributary of the Latah River. Mike’s Reserve Red is a red wine produced by Mike’s Winery. 2$22
- Flavor Highlights: Fresh Strawberries, Red Grape, and Chocolate
- Make our Lemon Cake recipe and see how it turns out. It’s quite simple to prepare and goes perfectly with our Riesling. When combined with Lemon Cake, which is a family favorite dessert, the sweet fruit notes of our Riesling are a match made in heaven. My selection is as follows: Latah Creek Riesling 2018, $12
- Latah Creek Riesling 2017, $12
- Notes on flavor: green apple, pineapple, and citrus
- The simplicity of vanilla cake, with its sweetness and lightness, is a perfect match for our Orange Moscato wine. The appropriate complement is a full-bodied white wine with sweet honey and citrus aromas that has a lot of flavor. If you want to make a cake quickly and easily, I recommend packaged cake mixes. Just grab a box of vanilla cake mix and a bottle of Orange Moscato and you’re good to go
- My selection is as follows: Latah Creek Orange Moscato 2019$16
- Latah Creek Orange Moscato 2018$16
- Orange Blossom, Spun Sugar, and Honey are the flavors that come to mind.
- Someone who doesn’t love a delicious crumble or crisp at the conclusion of a meal will be hard pressed to come up with one. Combining a berry crisp with “Spokane’s1 wine” results in a dish that is sure to impress everyone in the room. Choose from these selections:Latah Creek Huckleberry d’Latah 2018$11
- Blueberry, Huckleberry, Pear, and Grape flavors are included in this blend.
- When it comes to the last dish, a strong cheese plate with figs and honey is a great choice. Then, to bring everything all together, use Natalie’s Nectar, which has sweet and intense flavors, to finish it off. Despite the fact that this red dessert wine is outstanding on its own, when matched with this dish, you’re in for a decadent treat. Also try sliced apples and pears, as well as little bits of dark chocolate
- My favorite is Latah Creek chocolate. Natalie’s Nectar 2016$15
- Natalie’s Nectar 2015$15
- Natalie’s Nectar 2016$15
- Natalie’s Notes on the palate: berries, plums, pepper
Let me know if you try out any of these ideas! Please notify me if you do! Cheers, Natalie
Simple Dessert and Wine Pairings With Chart
Karen Frazier contributed to this report. Karen is a wine, drink, and cuisine aficionado who enjoys traveling. She has a California Wine Appellation Specialist credential from the San Francisco wine school, as well as a Bar Smarts mixology certificate, and she works as a bartender for charity events. Specialist in the Appellations of California Wine (CWAS) In order for LoveToKnow to be a participant in affiliate relationships, it is possible that a portion of purchases from links on this page will be paid to it.
Our editorial content is not influenced by these relationships in any way.
A solid combination brings out the flavors of both the wine and the dessert to their full potential.
Berry Wines
Raspberry, strawberry, and other berry wines are produced by a large number of wineries. These wines pair wonderfully with dark chocolate treats because they have a traditional taste profile. Chocolate and berries mix together like peanut butter and jelly, and the sweetness of the wine wonderfully balances the sharpness of the chocolate.
Ruby Port
When combined with dark chocolate, Ruby Port offers a deep, rich, dark fruit flavor that is unbeatable. As a matter of fact, it’s a fantastic traditional combination that’s definitely worth trying since it successfully balances the bitterness of dark chocolate with the sweetness of dark fruit.
Chocolate Wine
Although it may seem like a no-brainer, chocolate and chocolate go together like peanut butter and jelly. Creamy chocolate wines, such as Chocovine, have a mild, milk chocolate flavor with a warmth that is nearly like a fortified wine in taste and texture. These smooth, creamy wines pair well with dark chocolate because they temper the intensity of the chocolate’s flavor while yet providing similar flavor characteristics.
Shiraz
Big, rich, fruit-forward notes that taste like berries and jam are commonly found in this powerful, spicy red from Australia that is also dry and peppery. While the Shiraz is dry, the fruit notes of the dessert pair beautifully with the dark chocolate, and the tannins help to cut through the fattiness of the dish. The dryness of the wine also helps to balance the sweetness of the chocolate, while the flavors of the jam help to soften any bitterness.
Wines With Crème Brûlée and Vanilla-Flavored Desserts
With its rich, creamy vanilla custard and caramelized sugar topping, this dessert is the perfect way to cap off a dinner.
Pairing it with a dessert wine enhances the flavor of the meal even further.
Sauternes or Barsac
Traditionally, crème brûlée is served with sweet white wine from the Bordeaux area, which is the most traditional wine combination. Both Sauternes and Barsac wines are produced from grapes that have been infected with botrytis cinera, which is found in Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. The presence of this fungus adds layers of complexity to the wines, and the lateness of the harvest results in a high residual sugar level in the finished product. A luscious, sweet wine with tropical aromas and a great, balanced acidity is produced as a consequence, which is well complemented by the vanilla custard.
Moscato (Muscat)
This white variety has a subtle sweetness to it that makes it enjoyable. Apricots and almonds are typical tastes found in Moscato wines, and they pair well with the rich vanilla custard in this dessert. In addition, pairing a Moscato with crème brûlée helps to balance out the richness of the custard since, while it has a modest sweetness, it is not overpoweringly sweet like other dessert wines.
Gewürztraminer
This German dry whitemay seem like an odd pairing with a thick crème brûlée at first glance, but when you consider the wine’s taste and balance, it makes perfect sense. Gewürztraminer is a dry, spicy wine with a pleasant acidity that pairs well with food. The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the fat of the custard, and the dryness of the wine serves to temper the sweetness of the dessert. In this dessert, the delicate vanilla notes of the crème brûlée are complemented by the spiciness of the Gewürztraminer.
Pairing Wine With Apple Pie and Apple or Pear Desserts
Apple pies are a delicious combination of sweetness and spice. The majority of the time, wines that match well with apple pie will also pair well with other apple desserts, such as apple brown Betty (also known as apple crisp) and baked apples.
German Riesling
It is possible to find Riesling from Germany with varying degrees of dryness and sweetness. The three finest apple dessert combinations are Kabinett, Spätlese, and Auslese, which are listed in order of sweetness from least sweet to most sweet. Riesling has a strong level of acidity, which helps it to cut through the sweetness of the pie perfectly. A subtle spicy flavor that fits well with the pie ingredients is also present in this mixture. Finally, the taste profile of Riesling is generally dominated by apples, pears, and other tree fruits, and the flavor of apples is a good match for the flavor of the wine.
Auslese is the wine you pick if you want a lot of sweetness in your wine.
Prosecco
Prosecco is a mildly bubbly Italian wine that is comparable to Champagne in taste and appearance. Prosecco is available at a variety of sweetness levels.
To counteract the richness of the pie, go for an off-dry Prosecco that is gently sweet but not overpowering in its sweetness. Apple pie is made with crisp and acidic Prosecco, which pairs perfectly with the acidity of the apples used in the pie.
Moscato d’Asti
This Italian white wine has a subtle fizz and a mild sweetness, making it a refreshing summer drink. It also includes pleasant fruit flavors such as apples and pears, which makes it a fantastic match for an apple pie dessert. Despite the fact that Moscato d’Asti is slightly sweet, it is not overbearing, so you will not be putting extremely sweet on top of super sweet in your dessert.
Lemon Meringue Pie and Citrus Curd Wine Pairing
Because lemon sweets, such as lemon meringue pie, are naturally acidic, they can be paired with wines that are rather sweet in comparison.
Ice Wine
Ice wines are prepared from white wine grapes that have been harvested after the first frost has occurred, allowing the sugars to become more concentrated. Ice wines become delectably sweet as a result of this. This sweetness helps to temper the acidity of lemon sweets, resulting in a wonderful and satisfying match.
Late Harvest Whites
Grapes picked late in the season are used to make late harvest white wines, which are delicious. As a result, the wines tend to have a low alcohol content but a high concentration of residual sugar. The sweetness of these wines ranges from mildly sweet to extremely sweet. Consider a late-harvest Viognier or Chardonnay, which tend to have zesty qualities that will pair nicely with the lemon taste profile.
Champagne
A dryChampagneor sparkling wine will also go well with a lemon meringue pie, as will a dessert wine. As with the crust’s characteristics, the biscuity notes of Champagne are a good complement for the meringue’s toasty flavor. Finally, Champagne has a tendency to be dry, which will help to balance the sweetness of the dessert.
Pumpkin Pie and Warm Spice Desserts Wine Pairing
Pumpkin pie and other pumpkin sweets tend to be sweet, creamy, and spicy, with a hint of cinnamon and clove. Numerous wines mix nicely with these characteristics, counterbalancing the creaminess and enhancing the spice notes.
Tawny Port
Tawny Port is distinguished by its golden hue and its warm, rich taste. Although the fortified wine is often sweet, it also has delicious caramel and spice tastes that go nicely with the pumpkin and spices. The strong alcohol content of the pumpkin custard helps to balance out the creaminess of the custard.
Australian Dessert Muscat
This is a fortified wine that is comparable to a tawny Port in taste and appearance. It boasts a delicious combination of sweet and spicy aromas, as well as a pleasing golden appearance. Wine drinkers frequently describe the tastes of this wine as toasty, raisiny, or toffee-like. Pumpkin pie benefits from the combination of these warm tastes and the warm spices.
Madeira
This fortified wine from Portugal is available in a variety of sweetness levels, ranging from dry to sweet. Choose a sweet or semi-sweet Madeira to combine with your pumpkin dish, depending on your preference. Among the many characteristics found in Madeirate are smoky, peppery, and nutty, all of which complement the flavor of pumpkin. The high alcohol concentration also serves to perfectly complement the rich, creamy custard.
Tokaji
It is available in a range of sweetness levels, from dry to sweet, in this fortified wine from Portugal.
Choose a sweet or semi-sweet Madeira to mix with your pumpkin dish for a delicious combination. Madeiratends to have smokey, peppery, and nutty notes, all of which go nicely with pumpkin in a pumpkin pie. It also serves to perfectly complement the creamy custard because to the strong alcohol level.
Tiramisu and Mocha Dessert Wine Pairings
Many wines will pair well with tiramisu and other desserts with a coffee flavoring. Coffee is a taste that combines nicely with a variety of flavor characteristics, according to the experts.
Vin Santo
The color of this sweet Italian dessert wine has a lovely golden hue. It has a nutty flavor, similar to that of hazelnuts, with a hint of sweetness. Nuts and coffee go together like peanut butter and jelly, so a glass of Vin Santo will go a long way in balancing out the coffee flavor of the tiramisu.
Cream Sherry
Cream Sherry is a sweet fortified wine with a chocolate hue that is made from grapes. In tiramisu, it has a nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness, which helps to balance out the harshness of the coffee components in the dessert.
Ruby Port
The color of this fortified wine is a rich maroon, and it has a subtle sweetness to it. Ruby Port is known for being fruit driven, with tastes of berries dominating the aromas and sensations. It also has slight notes of nutmeg in the background. The aromas of berries and nuts are a fantastic compliment to the flavors of coffee and espresso.
Berry Desserts
Whatever the dessert (summer pudding or raspberry pie), berry desserts pair nicely with a wide range of wines that enhance their tastes and textures.
Rosé
Rosé wine is available in a variety of styles, from dry to sweet, and it has delicate floral and berry flavors that go well with berry sweets. If you’re serving sweet desserts, a drier rosé will help to balance out the sweetness.
Muscat-de-Beaumes-de-Venise
In the Rhône Valley, there is a sweet fortified wine called Muscat-de-Beaumes-de-Venise. It features sweet, honeyed, and citrus aromas that pair nicely with berries and berry desserts of all types and varieties.
Cava
The sparkling wine produced in Spain Cava may be either dry or sweet, and both are complementary to berries. Choose drier rosé wines to pair with sweeter sweets and sweeter rosé wines to pair with less sweet desserts to create a sense of balance and contrast in your meal.
Wine and Dessert Pairing Chart
The following chart outlines several excellent wines to pair with desserts, as well as a recommendation or two of specific wines for each type of dessert.
Matching Wine and Dessert
There are some fantastic wines to match with desserts in the following chart, as well as a suggestion or two of specific wines for each dessert.
10 Desserts made with red wine every wine lover must try!
If you enjoy red wine as much as we believe you do, you’ll enjoy these desserts that are created with red wine as well. These luscious red wine pastries are both elegant and delectably delicious. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on red wine; in most circumstances, a reasonably priced bottle will do the task just fine. Most of the recipes don’t call for a lot of wine, so it’s ideal to choose a wine that you enjoy drinking as well—you can even pour yourself a glass of wine while you’re preparing your dessert!
Red Wine Chocolate Cake
Chocolate cake and red wine go together like peanut butter and jelly, which is why red wine chocolate cake work is so delectable. Broma Bakery has created a cake that is practically to die for.
Red Wine Poached Pears + Vanilla Bean Mascarpone Filling
No doubt about it, that’s a mouthful, but it’s not just to say! These red wine poached pears are both elegant and delectable to eat. This dish is a great balance of flavors and textures. Everything comes together in such a beautiful way: a rough pear texture with a creamy filling, a deep red color with soft white accents, a sweet flavor dancing with acidic and salty flavors, and a rich red color with soft white accents.
To make a beautiful appearance, serve this dessert cooked with red wine in stemless wine glasses.
Cheesecake Bars with Red Wine Gelee
If you enjoy a nice cheesecake, you will enjoy these cheesecake bars with red wine. Gelee will most likely become one of your favorite sweets if you use red wine in the recipe. A refreshing alternative to berry cheesecakes, red wine gelee is a delicious dessert.
Chocolate-Pinot Noir Fondue
True to its name, chocolate-Pinot Noir fondue is a genuine thing, and it has just made the world a bit more lovely. Even better, it’s quite simple to put together. Fruit, bread, marshmallows, and other treats can be dipped in the wine and chocolate fondue, among other things. Take a look at this recipe from the Noble Pig.
Red Wine Truffles with Dried Cherries
As you might guess, they are quite delicious. If you are looking for the tastiest desserts created with red wine, you have come to the right place. Red wine truffles with dried cherries are as visually appealing as they are delicious, making them an excellent choice for a gift as well.
Red Wine Marshmallows + Dark Chocolate Ganache
It should come as no surprise that these are really fantastic. You have come at the right place if you are looking for the tastiest desserts created with red wine. As gorgeous as they are delicious, red wine truffles with dried cherries are an excellent choice for a hostess present or for yourself.
Red Wine Crème Brulee
Do you want to know how to conclude a formal dinner party with style? This red wine crème brulee is guaranteed to wow your friends and family. The preparation is quick and easy, but the baking and cooling time is significant.
Berry Sangria Sorbet
Sangria is a fantastic wine beverage.as well as a fantastic wine dessert! Preparing this vegangluten-freeberry sangria sorbet will make a lot of people smile, so get busy and create some now! Precautions must be taken, however, because, unlike other desserts that have red wine as an ingredient, the alcohol level of the strawberry sangria sorbet does not “cook out” with heat. If you consume an excessive amount of food, you may become a little tipsy.
Red Wine Ice Cream
If you like something a little creamier than sorbet, try somered wine ice cream. This is one ice cream that you won’t find in the freezer department of your local grocery store, but that’s good since it’s not too difficult to make from scratch at home. This recipe does not necessitate the use of an ice cream machine. In fact, if you enjoy handmade ice cream as much as you enjoy wine, this is one of the desserts created with red wine that you just must try!
Dark Chocolate Red Wine Fudge
Choose somered wine ice cream for a creamier alternative to sorbet. You won’t find this ice cream in the frozen department of your local supermarket, but that’s good since it’s not too difficult to make from scratch. This recipe does not call for the use of an ice cream machine. In fact, if you enjoy handmade ice cream as much as you do wine, this is one of the desserts created with red wine that you just must try!
Wine and Dessert Pairing Rules {and how to break them} — The Wine Party Co.
What’s even better than dessert, you might ask? Dessert and a glass of wine Is there anything greater than that? Simple wine and dessert combinations that make indulging a simple yet delectable experience are presented here. One of the reasons why wine pairings are so tough is because we are taught that there are “correct” responses. That is not correct, to be honest. With so many various methods to mix and match tastes, there is more than one perfect match for your chocolate cake, and everyone has a distinct taste preference as well.
Sweet and spicy combinations are some of my favorites.
Maybe it’s because we all have distinct palates and diverse preferences, after all?
Rather than discussing the two most important wine and dessert matching principles, I’ll show you how to defy them in a few minutes. Despite the fact that the guidelines are an excellent starting point, it is your responsibility to put them to the test for yourself.
Rule1: The wine should be sweeter than the dessert.
Obviously, this is timeless and sound counsel. It’s essentially advising you that sweet wines go well with desserts and that this is generally true based on a taste test. Just wait till you see how these sweet wines brighten up your sumptuous dessert and add taste diversity to the mix. As a result, what exactly does it imply when we say “sweet wine”? There are many sweet red wines to choose from, including Ports and Port-style wines, Cream Sherries, Sauternes, Tokaji, sweet white sparklers like Moscato d’Asti or Asti Spumante, Orange Muscat, Pedro Ximenez, sweet Rieslings or Gewürztraminers, and sweet red sparklers like Lambrusco and Brachetto d’Aqui.
Here’s a brief selection of sweet combos that are very delicious:
- Tres Leches Cake with a glass of Pedro Ximenez or Madeira wine
- Chocolate Truffles with Moscato d’Asti
- Peach Cobbler with Orange Muscat
- Lemon Bars with sweet Riesling
- Blueberry Pie with Brachetto d’Aqui
However, let us now deviate from this norm because there are absolutely instances! Here are a couple of “normal wine” combinations that are quite delicious:
- Meringue with a Berry Compote and a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is a delicious dessert. The secret here is that this wine is noted for having robust fruit smells that contribute to the already-fruity berry compote, and the acidity in the wine elevates the sugary sweet meringue
- Birthday Cake and rosé are two of the most popular pairings for this wine. Here’s the deal: rosé pairs well with a wide variety of cuisines, and desserts are no exception. Because it’s light, many of them are fruity, and they’re often bursting with delicate smells that bring variety to a dessert that might otherwise be bland. This is the pepper in your honeynut cheerios, as well as in your Sugar Cookies and Brut Champagne, respectively. While there is a trace quantity of sugar in brut Champagne, the majority of it is what we would describe as “dry,” or “not sweet.” A sugar cookie, on the other hand, has characteristics that are similar to those of a pastry, such as brioche and bread, that mix nicely with the simple and shortbready notes of Champagne. In addition, the frothy texture adds a lot of life to the dish.
Rule2: Red wine doesn’t go with dessert.
When it comes to Cabernet Sauvignon with chocolate, people go crazy for it. But did you know that the chocolate may make your wine taste bitter or even sour when it’s mixed with it? Drink a glass of wine before you indulge in a piece of chocolate, and then another glass of wine afterward. Take note of how the wine’s flavor evolves over time. It’s up to you whether you like it or not! When you take the tastes out of the equation and look at it objectively, dessert isn’t the greatest buddy of a red wine for the majority of people.
It is possible to defy this cardinal rule, but only with extreme caution.
- Most red wines are not sweet at all, however inexpensive red wines such as two-buck-chuck tend to include a little amount of residual sugar to enhance their flavor. Sugar makes them more dessert-friendly than their pricier rivals
- Lighter red wines may be wisely combined with a wide variety of sweet treats. Here are a few must-try pairs that defy this guideline to a stunning degree:
- White Chocolate Mousse with Pinot Noir is a decadent dessert. As an example, consider a white chocolate-covered strawberry. Pinot Noir has a strong acidity, low tannin content, and a lower intensity, which allows wine to complement the subtle notes of the white chocolate without overpowering them. There are no concerns with bitter or sour flavors in this dish, thanks to the Barbera and the Bread Pudding. We’re talking nutmeg, cinnamon, and raisins, with a dash of orange thrown in for good measure to really bring everything together. Wines like Barbera, which is lighter and has a taste profile that is comparable to Pinot Noir but is a little more herbaceous, pair well with the doughy, spicy notes of bread pudding
- Beaujolais and Raspberry Strudel are also excellent pairings. Beaujolais is renowned for producing a light type of Gamay that is full of lively and unusual flavors that complement one another. The notes of pastry and raspberry will go well with the flavors of cinnamon, kirsch, strawberry, and cherry that you’ll commonly find in this wine. It has a low tannin content and a mild intensity, so consider this one a match
Are you ready to take a step out of your comfort zone and experiment with some of these unconventional wine and dessert pairings? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!
7 Tasty Pairings For Dessert and Wine
These dessert and wine pairings are perfect for every dining occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, an anniversary celebration, or a lavish feast for four. When it comes to combining food and wine, the key is to think of wine as an ingredient rather than as a complement. It provides a “additional bonus.” Wine intensifies flavors, resulting in a whole different flavor profile. Desserts are no exception to this rule. In fact, creating the ideal dessert and wine match may be a wonderful way to cap off a great evening with friends and family.
Strawberry Shortcake
This creamy classic is given a sparkly makeover with fireworks. Purchase the book and receive the course! Learn about wine with the Wine 101 Course ($29 value). With the purchase of Wine Folly: Magnum Edition, you will receive this bonus. Read on to find out more Vouvray Brut: This is a brute of a Vouvray. Made from Chenin Blanc grapes,Vouvrayis a crisp, mouth-puckering white wine that has flavors of green apple, pear, and honeysuckle in addition to its crisp, mouth-puckering texture. Those seeking for something familiar but also distinctive can choose sparkling wines from South Africa, where Chenin Blanc is a very prominent grape variety.
Furthermore, many Vouvray Brut wines are produced using the Traditional Method, which imparts a biscuity flavor that pairs beautifully with the already creamy components in this delight.
Peach Cobbler
The wine has a lot of fruit and a nice blast of acidity. The dry Riesling grape is Germany’s favorite wine, and it can be found in a variety of styles ranging from sweet to bone dry. It has excellent aromas of citrus and green apple to go with it. A slatey feeling of minerality is particularly noticeable in drier Rieslings, which only adds to the complexity of the wine. Why it works is as follows: Using its crisp acidity and fruity tastes, a dry Riesling cuts through the syrupy richness of a peach cobbler, increasing the fruitiness of the dish very slightly.
White Chocolate
Subtle sweetness should be balanced with decadently fruity aromas. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc: Studies have revealed that New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc brings out more of the distinctive passion fruit flavors in wine than any other Sauvignon Blanc produced anywhere else in the world. When compared to its greener, Old World counterparts, the Kiwi standard forSauvignon Blanchas far more fruit to it, which contributes significantly to its current popularity. Why it works is as follows: Those rich, fruity fragrances take the subtle balance of white chocolate and enhance it with a layer of fruit that isn’t too overpowering in its own right.
You’ll be convinced that you’re eating a fruit cream mousse at any moment.
Lemon Bars
Match the notes of the sweet and the tart to each other. Many modern drinkers find the creamy addition of oak to the bracing notes of apple, pear, and lemon peel to be extremely controversial, maybe because they have had one or two too many butter bombs to enjoy this style. But the reality is that there are a large number of excellent oakedChardonnays available across the world, and their adaptability is one of their greatest assets. Why it works is as follows: Combining the shortbread crust and sharpness of a lemon bar with an oaked Chardonnay is a genuinely complementing parallel that is hard to beat.
Carrot Cake
With a hint of tanginess on the side, this dish is a combination of spice and sweetness. Fino Sherry (Spanish for “fine sherry”): Because it is the driest of the Sherries, Fino Sherry does not have the heavy sweetness that many of its darker sisters are renowned for, and instead has lighter, more delicate notes of almonds, salt, and a hint of citrus to accompany its lighter, more subtle flavors. The more robust tastes of the Oloroso Sherrysoften may be enjoyed on its own as a dessert, whilst Fino’s more subtle flavors can be enjoyed with a variety of cuisines.
The acidic Jackfruit taste of many Fino Sherries also works well with the earthier flavor of the carrot cake itself, which makes for a delicious combination.
Chocolate Mousse
The richness of chocolate combined with the lightning bolts of fruit is unbeatable. Brachetto d’Acqui (Brachetto of Acqui): In this semi-sparkling Italianred that has a lighter body and wine berry flavors, there is some sweetness without being overly overwhelming. Actually, if you don’t have anything to serve as a dessert, a bottle of Brachettocan be just as satisfying on its own! Why it works is as follows: They’ll cut right through the rich creaminess of a chocolate mousse, while also imparting crisp texture and scents of candied fruit, red flowers, or both.
Apple Pie
Take this traditional pie and smother it in a slew of additional fruits! Gewürztraminer: Gewürztraminer is a very fragrant white wine that is recognized for its scent of lychee, flowers, citrus, and spices. Despite the fact that it is widely recognized as being sweet, drier types are available, and they are sometimes just as aromatic. Why it works is as follows: As with warm apple piedoes, Gewürztraminer blends fruit and spice in the same way, making it one of the most apparent dessert and wine combinations on this list!
Some wines are wonderful desserts on their own, but this should not prevent you from searching for the right after-dinner snacks to pair with them!
Dessert and Wine Pairings from Our Bordeaux Chef
In France, the wine that is served with dessert is frequently determined by the location and the food being served. terroir refers to the way a specific place’s topography, biodiversity, and cultural heritage combine to produce an agricultural product with a distinct feature. It is a notion that has been around for centuries. Terroir is what distinguishes foods and wines as being inextricably linked to their places of origin, unless you happen to be in Paris, where everything comes together. Here are some suggestions for mixing wines with sweets.
Sweet wines that have been matured can have delightful aromas of white stone fruits, almonds, or honey, making them treats in their own right!
Sauternes and Barsac, the most well-known of the sweet wines produced in the Bordeaux region, are made from grapes that have ripened in the sun, fog, and moisture, and have become shriveled as a result of botrytis cinerea, also known as “noble rot,” which concentrates the sugars and flavors from the grapes.
- Monbazillac, Jurançon (which is near to the Pyrénées), and Bergerac are all sweet wines produced in the region south of Bordeaux, in the southwest of France.
- Chocolate Mousse is a dessert that is rich in chocolate flavor.
- The following tastes tend to complement dark chocolate: Côtes du Rhône wines can have flavors of cherry, vanilla, and spice, while Rasteau wines can have dark fruit notes from the Carignan Noir vine, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines from the southern Rhône can have chocolate notes.
- The spicy and black berry notes of Grenache Noir grapes, or the dark fruit notes of Syrah grapes, are sometimes enjoyed in combination with other “death by chocolate” delicacies, such as the popular semi-sweet chocolate cake (biscuit au chocolat) (molten chocolate cake).
- Consult your local wine shop for recommendations on additional reds that might go well with dark chocolate dishes.
- Acrème brûlée, or any other cream-based or fruit-based dessert, is a perfect match for Alsace’s late harvest Gewürztraminer, and any of these sweet wines can be enjoyed together.
- You would almost certainly have a “sweet” crêpe for dessert, and I would probably simply stay with the cider or end the lunch with a cup of coffee.
- Whenever you’re in Rome (or France), and you’re enjoying the local sheep cheese with cherry jam or havingnoix au lait (walnuts in milk) in the Basque Country, along the French border with Spain, go local and match your sweets with a dry, somewhat effervescent white Basque Txakoli wine.
Always remember that you can always rely on terroir: what grows together, stays together, as the saying says. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Try it out and see how it works for you. You have the option to unsubscribe at any time.
Wine Pairings for Desserts
Crispy Dulce de Leche Dulce de Leche Crispies Featured image courtesy of Lucy Schaeffer Dessert dishes that pair well with wine, such as raspberry jam bomboloni and a fizzy effervescent red wine, are included.
Granny Smith Apple and Brown Butter Custard Tart
Sweet and Sour Crisps with Dulce de Leche Lucy Schaeffer is to be credited. Dessert dishes that pair well with wine, such as raspberry jam bomboloni and a fizzy effervescent red wine, are shown below.
Double-Chocolate Bundt Cake with Ganache Glaze
Bundt Cake with Ganache Glaze made with double chocolate. Many Bundt cakes are heavy and buttery, but this one is unexpectedly light and very moist, thanks to the silky chocolate glaze that coats the top and sides. Vintage Port is recommended as a wine pairing. Vintage ports are huge wines with black-fruit flavors and robust tannins when they’re young; pair them with something as intense, such as a rich, dark-chocolate dessert or a blue cheese like Stilton, to bring out the best in each other.
Raspberry Jam Bomboloni
Bomboloni with Raspberry Jam (photo courtesy of Quentin Bacon) Immediately after they come out of the frying pan, Kate Neumann fills the doughnut holes with fruit jams or chocolate ganache and then rolls them in sugar and spices. Brachetto d’ Acqui, a red wine from Italy, is recommended as a pairing. Wine from Piedmont that is effervescent and not too sweet, with flavors of wildberries and fizz, is an excellent way to cap off any meal with a crisp finish. It goes well with any berry treat, whether it’s a raspberry pie, a blackberry crumble, or a handful of freshly picked wild strawberries from the field.
Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta with Honey-Glazed Apricots
Panna Cotta with Honey-Glazed Apricots made with Greek yogurt This cold, delicate treat, according to Kate Neumann, has a citrus flavor “Custard’s characteristics are retained without the egginess. The tanginess is enhanced by the use of Greek yogurt.” Orange Muscat is a good wine to pair with this dish. Sometimes, the Mediterranean grape is mistaken with the more popular Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, which is a hybrid of the two. It is used to make delectable dessert wines. Fresh fruit, particularly tangerine and orange flowers, as well as desserts with a tangy edge, pair well with this wine’s flowery scents and light to medium body.
Dulce de Leche Crispies
Crispy Dulce de Leche Dulce de Leche Crispies Featured image courtesy of Lucy Schaeffer Marcia Kiesel creates a sophisticated spin on the popular Rice Krispies Treats by cleverly substituting marshmallows with dulce de leche, a Latin American dessert sauce, and then adding even more crunch with toasted, sliced almonds. This dish has a caramel flavor, is nutty, and is quite crunchy. Madeira is the perfect wine to pair with this dish. When mixing sweets with dessert wines, it’s easy for the sweetness to overpower the taste senses.
A Guide to Wine & Dessert Pairings
There is a wealth of knowledge available on how to combine the ideal wine with the perfect cuisine, whether it be pasta, steak, or fish. How about, on the other hand, if you’re heading out to indulge in the ideal dessert? How about a glass of wine to go with the delectable sweet confection that you have selected from the menu? This guide will assist you in selecting wines for a variety of desserts from a variety of categories, as well as provide some explanations as to why the wine pairs so well with the dessert.
Your server will believe you’re an expert in wine pairing the next time you order dessert with a friend since you’ll be able to produce the right blend of flavors for your dessert with a friend.
CakesCookies
Cakes and cookies are popular among people of all ages, and when they are prepared properly, they are among the most delectable treats ever produced. Making the appropriate wine pairing for cookies and cake can be difficult, but here are some suggestions to get you started.
- A light, possibly even effervescent beverage, such as a fine Prosecco wine, is recommended with sugar cookies or shortbread biscuits. Cookies with jam filling: A sweet, fizzy wine with a fruity flavor, such as Moscato D’Asti
- Wine to pair with ginger snaps or pumpkin spice: A rich, sweet wine such as Rutherglen Muscat
- Pecan sandies, peanut butter cookies, or any other cookie containing nuts: Malmsey Madeira, for example, is a sweet, robust wine with nutty characteristics. Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Banyuls, which are inherently sweet, can be used to make chocolate cake or chocolate-chip cookies. Pavlova: A mildly sparkling wine, such as Moscato d’Asti, is used to make Pavlova. Wine for strawberry shortcake: A palate-cleansing wine such as extra-dry Prosecco
- A red wine such as Maury or Banyuls is recommended for red velvet cake.
Confectionaries/Candies
If your favorite dessert is sweets or confectioneries, you’ll want a wine that will stand up to the test of time. When combining wine with this sort of delicacy, the most important guideline to remember is to always choose a wine that is sweeter than the candy itself. Here are some of my favorite food and wine combinations.
- Ghiradelli’s dark chocolate chocolates and rich toffee bars, for example, are excellent choices. AnyMerlot, a California Cabernet Sauvignon
- Classic chocolate/Hershey bars
- AnyMerlot
- AnyMerlot Caramel candy/candy apples (sometimes known as caramel apples): It’s best to drink a sweet, buttery wine like theTrinity Hill Gimblett Gravels Chardonnay from New Zealand. Candy kids/sour patch kids with bright colors that are sweet and sour: A flowery, fragrant wine such as a Pinot Grigio or Seghesio’s pinot
- Peanut Butter Candy/Peanut Reese’s Butter Cups: A floral, aromatic wine such as a Pinot Grigio or Seghesio’s pinot
- A drink with almond flavor and a hint of fruit, such as Emilio Lustau Solera Sherry
Frozen Desserts
Many individuals enjoy frozen sweets because they are convenient. Sweet frozen meals, ranging from ice cream to Baked Alaska, are a favorite among consumers. Some ideas for combining your favorite ice creams with other frozen treats are provided in this article.
- Any of the late-harvest Zinfandels would go well with vanilla ice cream. Chocolate ice cream:Brachetto d’Acqui, a red wine with tastes of strawberries and raspberries, is a good pairing with chocolate ice cream. Sherbet/Sorbet: One of the most well-known wines on this list is the perfect complement with practically every sorbet or sherbet flavor out there (including Neapolitan). It is: Moscato d’Asti
- Moscato d’Asti
- Moscato d’Asti Fruity ice creams and BenJerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake are two of my favorite desserts. Zinfandels are excellent because they have a delicious, strawberry flavor and are medium-bodied. They are also inexpensive. It’s unlikely that a full-bodied wine will go well with these ice cream tastes
- Wine and Nutty Ice Creams: Sherry is the ideal pairing for most of the nutty ice cream varieties available, and especially for any of the peanut butter ice cream tastes
- Sherry and nutty ice creams are a classic pairing. Hot-Cold Pastry Desserts/Baked Alaska: Once again, a goodCrémant d’Alsace sparkling wine or a Tawny Port are excellent pairings for this dessert.
PastriesPuddings
Pastries and puddings are undoubtedly a popular treat for some individuals, notably in the United Kingdom, where there are over a hundred distinct varieties of pudding to choose from. Here are some wine and food combinations to get you started on your search for the right wine.
- Brachetto d’Acqui is the excellent wine to pair with jam-filled pastries or doughnuts/Bomboloni. When it comes to bread pudding, Champagne sparkling wine is the ideal choice, but you can also try Sémillon or Cerdon du Bugey if you want to be more adventurous. Chocolate Pudding: Sherry, Muscat, a fruity Chardonnay, Moscato d’Asti, merlot, orpinot noir
- A fruity Chardonnay, Moscato d’Asti, merlot, orpinot noir
- Butterscotch Pudding: Butterscotch pudding might be difficult to make, but you can use chardonnay, Muscat, or Crémant to make it easier. Tapioca: This is another dish that pairs well with Champagne Blanc de Blancs, but it may also be served with Chenin Blanc or Sémillon as well.
Custards, PiesTarts
Custards, pies, and tarts are the final group of sweets to discuss. Custards and tarts may be paired with a wide variety of wines, regardless of the filling used, while pie needs a bit more thought and consideration.
- Cream custards and tarts: Both of these desserts are excellent companions to smooth, rich wines made from grapes such asRiesling, Vidal Blanc, or Vignoles that have been picked just after the first winter frost. Dark fruit sweets like cherry pie go nicely with red wines such as Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Syrah, among others. Apple Pie: Apple pie pairs well with one of our favorite wines, Moscato d’Asti, but you can also pair it with Sauternes or Tawny Port if you want. Pumpkin Pie: A medium-to-sweet Riesling or Muscat pairs well with pumpkin pie — if you’re not in the mood for wine, rum may be substituted for the wine. Pie made with rhubarb should be served with a fruity and somewhat sweet wine such as Spatlese or Auslese. Sweet Potato Pie: A high-acid wine such as a New ZealandSauvignon BlancorGewurztraminer
- ‘Old Fashioned’ Pecan Pie: Bourbon
Cream custards and tarts: Both of these desserts are excellent companions to silky, rich wines made from grapes such asRiesling, Vidal Blanc, or Vignoles that have been picked just after the first winter frost; Dark berry sweets such as cherry pie go nicely with red wines such as Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Apple Pie:Apple pie pairs well with one of our favorite wines, Moscato d’Asti, but you may also try Sauternes or Tawny Port if you want. If you’re making pumpkin pie, a medium to sweet Riesling or Muscat will go well with it – if you’re not in the mood for wine, rum will do the trick as well.
The sweet potato pie should be served with a high-acid wine such as a New ZealandSauvignon BlancorGewurztraminer; the ‘Old Fashioned’ Pecan Pie should be served with Bourbon; and the ‘Old Fashioned’ Pecan Pie should be served with Bourbon.
Related
In the minds of many, the word “dessert wine” conjures up images of syrupy concoctions that leave a bitter taste in the mouth. For after all, in today’s health-conscious age of low-sugar wines, keto diets, and carb-free living, who wants to drink a cloyinglysweet wine that may send your insulin levels skyrocketing and leave a sticky feeling on your tongue for hours after you’ve finished your glass? (It’s possible that there are a handful of you out there.) While the increasing popularity of dry wines (that is, wines that are not sweet) might appear to spell the end of sweet wines, this is not necessarily the case.
To that end, please allow us to provide you with some background information about dessert wine and how it differs from other types of wines. A helpful list of dessert wines, as well as some enticing food combinations, will be provided as part of the event.
What IsDessert Wine?
Dessert wine may be defined as any wine that is consumed during or after dessert in its broadest meaning. Dessert wine, to be more exact, is often sweet, has a distinct taste, and has a higher alcohol concentration. For example, Port, Madeira, Sherry, and late-harvest wines are all examples of late-harvest wines. Traditionnal dessert wines having an alcohol content of more than 15 percent by volume (ABV). Nonetheless, low-alcoholdessert wines with less than 10% alcohol by volume (ABV) are available, such Muscadet, Moscato d’Asti, and Brachetto d’Acqui.
- In other words, the amount of sugar that is left over after the fermentation process has taken place.
- A variety of methods were used by winemakers to create essert wines.
- It might be created from late-harvest grapes that have been allowed to raisinate and increase in sugar content as a result of being kept on the vine for a longer period of time.
- Alternatively, it may be sweetened by fortification, resulting in the production of fortified wines.
- While most dessert wines are on the sweeter side, there is a wide range of styles available under the category of dessert wines.
- To be clear, dessert wines are not merely sweet, one-trick ponies, as you may have previously believed.
What to Look for inDessert Wine
Dessert wines, as previously said, are available in a variety of sweetness levels and are available in both red and white wines. Enjoying these mouthwatering sippers with dessert or as dessert in and of itself is recommended. Furthermore, it’s important to note that dessert wines are designed to be served in little wine glasses, similar to the way you’d sip on a snifter of whiskey or bourbon. (Although we must admit that we are great supporters of single-serve wine bottles that eliminate the need for a glass entirely.) If you desire a sweet dessert wine, you will get a sweet dessert wine.
With dessert or as a treat on its own, these mouth-watering sippers are a must-try!
However, we must confess that we are great supporters of single-serve wine bottles, which eliminate the need for a glass entirely.
Dessert wines are available in a variety of flavors, so if you want sweet, sweet is what you’ll get! Keep an eye out for the words listed below while you’re reading wine labels:
Different Types ofDessert Winesand Food Pairings
While there are a plethora of wines that may be enjoyed with dessert, the ones that are featured below are the best examples of the genre. In order to avoid any unpleasant aftertaste when matching wine with sweet dessert, it’s recommended to pick a wine that is sweeter than the dessert itself. According to our enthralling guide on acidity in wine, sugar increases acidity, which is why dry wines taste harsh and sharp when served with sweet meals. With that in mind, here are many varieties of dessert wines, as well as delectable food combinations, that may enhance the flavor and overall experience of your dessert.
Port
Despite the fact that it is best known as a sweet red wine, this fortified wine from Portugal is available in a variety of flavors ranging from deep reds to dry white and dry rosé varieties. Chocolate cake, chocolate truffles, and salted caramel desserts are all wonderful pairings for the sweetly complex redtawny port and ruby port. Serve the white or roséport wines with stone fruit, strawberry angel food cake, or lemon meringue pie to complement the flavors of the wine.
Madeira
Madeirais is a fortified wine produced in Portugal’s Madeirais region, and it is renowned for its nutty, brown sugar, and burned caramel flavors. This amber-hued wine may be enjoyed on its own after a dinner, or paired with sweets like as astoffeepudding, tiramisu, or spicy treats such as chocolate truffles coated with cayenne pepper.
Sauternes
An aged port wine from the Portuguese Madeira region, Madeirais is renowned for its nutty, brown sugar, and burned caramel flavors. It is produced in small quantities. Enjoy this amber-hued wine on its own after a dinner, or pair it with sweets like as astoffeepudding, tiramisu, or spicy treats such as chocolate truffles sprinkled with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Sherry
This fortified wine comes from the country of Spain. Sherry is often served as an aperitif before a meal; however, why not try it after a hearty dinner when you’re looking to wind down? Fruit sweets like Pedro Ximénez are great accompaniments to crème brulee, vanilla ice cream, dark chocolate anything, or just enjoyed on their own as an after dinner treat.
Riesling
This delicious sparkling wine from Germany is available in a variety of sweetness levels. Its inherent acidity helps to cut through the sweetness of the dish, making it a wonderful companion to a cheese course or cheesecake after dinner. Serve a sweeter Spätlese with citrus-based sweets such as lemon pound cake or lemon cream pie if you have a sweeter Spätlese on hand. Pear tarts and sorbet are also delicious desserts that go together like peanut butter and jelly.
Gewürztraminer
There are several levels of sweetness in this delicious German sparkling wine. As a result of its inherent acidity, it is an excellent companion to a sweet cheese course or cheesecake after a meal of rich, savory dishes.
Serve a sweeter Spätlese with citrus-based sweets such as lemon pound cake or lemon cream pie if you have a sweeter Spätlese available. Pear tarts and sorbet are both delicious desserts that go together like peanut butter and jelly on toast.
Moscato
In addition to being known as Muscat Blanc in its native country of Italy, Moscato is an extremely popular white wine that has built a name for itself owing to the three F’s that best characterize its character: fizzy, fruity, and flowery. This dessert wine is perfect for enjoying on a spring day or a late summer evening. It is also incredibly flexible. You might serve it with poached pears, grilled peaches, fruit tarts, nutty treats such as biscotti, or whatever else you choose.
Ice Wine
Ice wine, also known as Eiswein in German, is a particular sort of wine that is made from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. Due to the frigid environment required for the production of this dessert wine, it can only be produced in Germany and Canada. (It’s also one of the reasons why it’s a somewhat expensive wine.) Consider matching the red grape type with chocolate desserts and the white grape variety with blue cheeses and cheesecake if you have the choice between the two.
It’s Time for Dessert in a Glass
Following your education on dessert wines, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to use in a variety of real-world scenarios. Dessert wines, like any other type of wine, are characterized by a wide range of tastes and characteristics. Despite the fact that there are several “rules” associated with wine consumption, the basic line is that you are free to set your own guidelines. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a bottle of dry sparkling Brut or wonderfully crisp rosé to accompany those funfetti cupcakes you just brought out of the oven.
Who knows what will happen?
That’s the beauty of wine: no matter how you enjoy it, it is one of life’s joys that makes everything else a little bit easier to swallow.