What Dessert Pairs Well With Wine

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.

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A solid combination brings out the flavors of both the wine and the dessert to their full potential.

Berry Wines

Karen Frazier contributed to this article. The author of this article is a wine and cocktail aficionado who also enjoys good meals. She has a California Wine Appellation Specialist credential from the San Francisco wine school, as well as a Bar Smarts mixology certificate, and she volunteers as a bartender for philanthropic events. Specialized in California Wine Appellations (CWAS) LoveToKnow is a participant in affiliate marketing programs and may get a commission on sales generated by links on this page.

For more information, please see our affiliate program page.

If you choose the proper combination of wines and sweets, you will be delighted.

To take your dessert to the next level, you should experiment with these combinations.

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.

If you want a wine with less sweetness to balance the sugar in the pie, a Kabinett is a good choice for you. 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

When white wine grapes are harvested after the first frost, the sugars are condensed and the wine is known as ice wine. Ice wines become delectably sweet as a result of this technique. Lemon sweets benefit from its sweetness since it helps to balance the acidity of the lemon. It’s a delightful combination.

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

Pie and other pumpkin treats have a tendency to be too sweet, overly creamy, and excessively spicy. Many wines match nicely with these tastes, helping to balance the creaminess and accentuate the spiciness.

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 strong alcohol level also complements the creamy custard excellently.

Tokaji

Hungarian Tokaji has rainy notes that go well with the spiciness of pumpkin pie and other sweets with a similar flavor profile. Dessert wine has a pleasant sweetness to it that goes well with the spice in the pie.

Tiramisu and Mocha Dessert Wine Pairings

Many wines will pair well with tiramisu and other sweets with a coffee flavoring. Coffee is a taste that combines nicely with a variety of flavor characteristics, according to the experts.

Vin Santo

TIRAMISU and other coffee-flavored treats pair well with a variety of wines. With its distinctive flavor, coffee is a flavor that works well with a variety of flavor characteristics.

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

With a rich crimson hue and subtle sweetness, this fortified wine is a must-try! Typically, the tastes of berries predominate in Ruby Port, which is a fruit-forward style. Also present are undertones of nutmeg and almond. When it comes to coffee tastes, the flavors of berries and nuts are a fantastic match.

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 sugary sweets, 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

While the options above might serve as a starting point, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to combining wines and sweets. Pair your favorite wines with your favorite treats. Look for tastes that complement one another and wines that will assist you in achieving the amount of sweetness you seek, and you’ll end up with a delectable match. LoveToKnow Media was founded in the year 2022. All intellectual property rights are retained.

16 Ways to Pair Wine with Your Favorite Desserts

If you’re anything like the average college student, your favorite things are probably alcoholic beverages and sweets. However, the majority of us are unsure of the optimum way to mix these elements.

Some sweets and some wines do not go together well. Not to worry: this guide will assist you in pairing your favorite sweets with the most complimentary wine available. We’ve even put up some recommendations for you on some inexpensive, yet fail-safe wine brands. Let’s get this party started!

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 uncomplicated, which makes it a wonderful 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

Winston Wong took the photograph. Wine that complements the sweetness of the apples in this classic American dessert. With apple pie, Moscato is the appropriate light wine to pair with it. Choose from the following options : Barrels of Moscato from Barefoot Cellars ($6.99) are available for purchase.

15.Milk Chocolate – Port

Photo courtesy of Winston Wong The sweetened apples in this classic American dessert demand for a wine that is just as sweet. Moscato is the ideal light wine to serve with apple pie. Our choice is as follows: Barefoot Cellars Moscato ($6.99) is a sweet wine from California.

16.Dark chocolate – Zinfandel

Photograph by Winston Wong The sweetened apples in this classic American dish demand for a wine that is as sweet. Moscato is the ideal light wine to pair with apple pie. Choose from the following: Moscato from Barefoot Cellars ($6.99) is a sweet wine.

6 Dessert and Wine Pairings

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)

• 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

• Chocolate is enhanced with red wine! No dessert can compete with a warm, gooey brownie fresh from the oven. A dark red wine such as our Mike’s Reserve Red is the ideal complement to a sweet treat like brownies. Red wines that have a chocolatey flavor profile are very appealing, and you’ll know when you try one. I recommend using a package of Chocolate Lava Cake or Brownie mix for a quick and easy dessert that is also incredibly scrumptious. Fresh fruit (such as strawberries) and whipped cream on top can be added as a finishing touch. My recommendation is: Latah Creek is a tributary of the Latah River in the state of Washington. “Mike’s Reserve Red” is a red wine produced by Mike’s Winery in New York City. $22
• Flavor Notes: Fresh Strawberries, Red Grape, Chocolate
• Price: $22

• In comparison to our Orange Moscato, which is a full-bodied white wine with flavors of sweet honey and orange, vanilla cake is simple in its sweetness. 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 favorite is the Latah Creek Orange Moscato 2019, which costs $16. Orange Blossom, Spun Sugar, and Honey are the flavors that come to mind.

• The sweetness and lightness of vanilla cake have a simplicity that matches perfectly with our Orange Moscato, a full-bodied white wine with sweet honey and orange overtones that is the perfect accompaniment. 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 favorite is the Latah Creek Orange Moscato 2019, which costs 16 dollars. Orange Blossom, Spun Sugar, and Honey are the flavors that come to mind when you think about this drink’s flavor.

• 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

Five Desserts That Go with Red Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon Edition

Assume you have some excellent cabernet sauvignons in your cellar that you want to show off during a dinner party, from appetizers to dessert and everything in between. As the last meal approaches, anticipation is strong for the presentation of a dessert that pairs well with red wine. Is your strategy equal to the challenge of constructing a bridge to dry cabernet? Cabernet and chocolate tastings are frequent in wine country, but let’s be honest: Cabernet sauvignon and chocoholics shouldn’t be meeting in this manner.

However, because cabernet’s strong tannins and bitter, astringent flavor clash with dark chocolate, neither can come out on top in this battle.

We’ve devised four desserts that pair perfectly with dry red wine, four of which are sweet and one of which is savory, to establish a symbiotic interaction between dry red wine and dessert.

Enjoy.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

With a few modest tweaks to any recipe, this famous Christmas cookie–typically dusted with a snow-like sprinkling of white powdered sugar–can be paired withAlexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon to great effect. Our favorite is theCook’s Illustrated version, but if you don’t have a Cook’s Illustrated subscription, Gimme Some Oven also has a fantasticcrinkle cookie recipe that you should try.

Replace all-purpose flour with black cocoa flour from King Arthur Flour, and use dried raspberries instead of powdered sugar for the crumble topping. If the cookie is made with darker chocolate and has less sugar, the combination with red wine will be more successful.

View the original recipe

Jordan culinary festivals frequently include this simple macaron recipe, which is quite easy to make. In this step-by-step video on how to create macarons, you’ll learn strategies and techniques for baking the ideal French macaron cookies in a variety of flavors, as well as a basic macaron filling recipe that can be used for any flavor of macaron. By substituting raspberry jam for the buttercream in this recipe, you can make it a dessert that pairs well with red wine, especially the 2014 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon.

And if you want to be even more creative, try mixing in a little amount of finely chopped fresh thyme into the batter before baking.

View the recipe

Adapted from the Bravetart cookbook by Stella Parks, this cake contains less sugar and is suitable for serving with red wine. Parks infuses red wine right into the cake batter in order to create a bridge between a dessert that works well with red wine and the rest of the meal. Rather of using dark chocolate, we go a step further and utilize organic, raw cocoa powder instead. Many people believe that dark chocolate is the ideal pairing for red wine because it has less sugar, but the dark chocolate flavor actually competes with the tannins in the red wine, making it a poor choice.

Make sure to pick a wine that has milder tannins and less alcohol, and finish with a dusting of dried raspberry powder to really bring it home.

View the recipe

If you’re searching for a fruit-based dessert to offer, blackberry cobbler is a classic summertime treat that can now be enjoyed all year long thanks to the availability of frozen berries. In this dish, we use blackberries to represent the fruit found in Jordan Cabernet, and we minimize the amount of sugar to make the combination sing.

View the recipe

In Europe, as most people are aware and have practiced, the last course does not always need to be sweet. A tasty meal’s conclusion is frequently applauded. To receive acclaim for a beautiful cheese dish that has been adorned with an exquisite sweet and salty membrillo may be quite an accomplishment. Although red wines, and cabernet sauvignon in particular, might be difficult to match with cheese, here is a link to some of our favorite cabernet sauvignon-cheese combinations. The Spanish delicacy membrillo, also known as orquince paste, is the centerpiece of this cheese dish.

It’s also fairly simple to put together.

Add some roasted hazelnuts to the presentation, which will help to balance out the tannins in the wine, and you’ve got yourself a full and exquisite dessert.

View the recipe

On Hawaii, Todd Knoll acquired an early attachment to the land and the water, which he credits to his upbringing in the island state. At Jordan Winery, he caters to hundreds of heirloom vegetables, fruits, and herbs that are grown on the estate. He also prepares hors d’oeuvres and meals for guests, as well as making olive oil and tending to the estate’s honeybees and chickens.

Visual artist at heart, Chef Knoll spends his spare time with his son and his wife, Nitsa Knoll, exploring the different terrain of Sonoma County with camera and pencil in hand, photographing moments in nature that will serve as inspiration for his next meal.

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.

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:

• Obviously, this is timeless and wise counsel. It’s essentially informing you that sweet wines go well with desserts and that this is generally true based on a blind tasting. Just wait till you see how these sweet wines liven up your sumptuous dessert and add taste richness to the dish! The term “sweet wine” refers to a beverage that is sweet in flavor. The wines in question are: Ports, Port-style wines, or other sweet red wines
• Cream Sherries
• Sauternes
• Tokaji
• Sweet white sparklers such as Moscato d’Asti or Asti Spumante
• Orange Muscat
• Pedro Ximenez
• Sweet Rieslings or Gewürztraminers
• And sweet red sparklers such as Lambrusco or Brachetto d’Aqui. Try it out and see how it works for you. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the best sweet pairings:

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!

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.

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, effervescent wine with a fruity taste, 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

Vera Miller wrote this guest article specifically for Social Vignerons, and we are grateful to her for her contribution. a little about the author: Vera Miller is a passionate food enthusiast who enjoys everything about cooking, especially the use of current technology in the kitchen, which can make even the most inexperienced cook appear to be an accomplished chef. Her blog, Kitchen Gadgets Wars, is a place where she periodically expresses her thoughts on the latest and weirdest kitchen gadgets.

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A Digital Content Strategist with over 20 years of marketing, branding, and digital content expertise, AuthorMinoli is the creator of The Mini Project as well as a Digital Content Strategist. When it comes to driving business results for its clients, The Mini Project is on a mission to deliver real and beautifully designed tales!

Wine and Dessert Pairings (2021)

Wine and dessert combinations may be wonderful. Port wine, Sauternes, Muscat, Riesling, Champagne. There are several great sweet wines that combine nicely with sweets. Listed below are some of the most common wine and dessert combos.

The date of publication is April 10th, 2020. Which beverage do you prefer for dessert after a great dinner? Do you prefer coffee or tea for dessert? Wine is a terrific option and may be extremely excellent with dessert if done appropriately.

General rules for pairing winedesserts

It is recommended that you choose a sweet wine while selecting the ideal wine for your dessert. The sweetness of the wine will be a good complement for the sweetness of the dessert. You should be aware of a few broad guidelines before diving into the many kinds of desserts:

• A darker dessert frequently necessitates the use of a darker wine. A sweeter wine should be served with a sweeter meal. The flavors of the wine and the flavors of the meal should be complementary.

More information may be found in our advice on how to pick the best wine for desserts.

Wine with ChocolateCaramel desserts

Chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, chocolate bar, chocolate truffles. the list goes on. There is a broad range of popular chocolate and caramel treats to choose from. Port wine from Portugal is the most traditional wine to drink with chocolate. Almost all Port wines go well with chocolate, but in order to get the greatest port and chocolate match, you must take the sweetness of the wine into mind. The general rule of thumb is to pick a wine that is somewhat sweeter than the dessert. Alternatively, dry wines may be served with chocolate and caramel sweets, but keep in mind that a glass of dry red wine (particularly dark chocolate!) might taste harsh when served with chocolate.

If you still want a dry red wine, go for one that has a lot of berry fruit flavors in it.

• A milk chocolate bar flavored with Tawny Port or Ruby Port. If you like dry red wines, Pinot Noir is a fantastic choice. Pair dark chocolate with LBV Port or Vintage Port. Dark chocolate and Zinfandel go together like peanut butter and jelly
• Chocolate with fruit or nuts goes well with Vintage PortorZinfandel
• Chocolate with caramel or salty nuts goes well with Tawny PortorMadeira
• White chocolate goes well with White Portor a fruity rosé wine. Also, an off-dryRieslingis a nice option. Desserts include chocolate cake with Ruby Port, chocolate mousse with Brachetto d’Acqui, sherry, or shiraz, banana bread with off-dryRiesling or Madeira, peanut butter pie with Madeira or Pinot Noir, and chocolate truffles.

Wine with VanillaCustard desserts

White wines, particularly sparkling wine, mix nicely with mild, buttery, and sweet vanilla desserts. The following are traditional partners for vanilla desserts:

• White wines, particularly sparkling wines, mix nicely with mild, buttery, and sweet vanilla sweets. Following are some of the most traditional partners for vanilla desserts:

Wine with FruitySpicy desserts

Numerous sweets incorporate fruit, berries, and a variety of spices, such as cardamom and cinnamon, among other ingredients. Dessert wines are influenced by the flavors of the fruits and spices used in them. As a rule, a wine with a high acidity is a suitable match for this sort of dessert since the acidity cuts through the sweetness and fruitiness of the dish. Here are a few examples of classic pairings:

• A somewhat sweetRiesling (Kabinett, Spätlese, and Auslese) or a Gewürztraminer-based apple pie
• A lemon meringue pie withRiesling or a late-harvest Viognier, Chardonnay, or Chenin Blanc-based dessert wine Both of these wines have citrus-forward flavors that pair well with a lemony dessert. Dessert with berries and a little sweet rosé wine or sparkling rosé as a pairing. The subtle berry notes in the wines pair perfectly with the flavors of the dessert. Fruity ice cream paired with rosé wines such as Zinfandel, Riesling, or Prosecco
• Spiced Pumpkin Pie paired with tawny Portorsweet Chenin Blanc
• Cookies paired with Prosecco orChampagne Doux
• And banana dessert paired with tawny Port or Sauternes.

With with a Cheese Platter

Although the focus of this advice is on sweet desserts, it is also normal to have cheese after a meal. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir are excellent wine partners for a cheese board with a variety of cheeses. We strongly advise you to read our in-depth advice on wine and cheese pairings before continuing. In this section, you will discover the ideal wine to pair with a wide variety of cheeses. Take pleasure in your wine and dessert!

Latest guides

It is customary to have cheese as an after-dinner snack, which is not included in this guide. Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are both excellent wine choices for a cheese board with a variety of cheese. We strongly advise you to read our in-depth advice on wine and cheese pairings before proceeding further. There, you will discover the ideal wine to pair with a wide variety of cheeses and other foods. So, sit back and relax with your glass of wine and dessert.

Chocolate House Rules

1. Although this article concentrates on sweet desserts, it is also usual to have cheese as a post-meal snack. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir are excellent partners for a cheese buffet with a variety of cheeses. We strongly advise you to read our in-depth advice on wine and cheese pairings. There you can discover the ideal wine to pair with a wide variety of cheeses. Enjoy your wine and dessert, and thank you for visiting!

Best Wines to Try

Vintage Port, Tawny Port, Cream Sherry, Pedro Ximénez, and Rutherglen Muscat are all excellent choices.

Whites— Sweet, long finish

Riesling from the late harvest, Eiswein / Icewine, and Tokaji

Classic Wine Pairings

a mousse made with vintage port and dark chocolate Dark chocolate is extremely rich and might have a harsh taste to it. The intense nature and punchy flavors of this dish necessitate the use of a powerful, long-lasting fortified wine. With deep black fruit flavors and a full-bodied mouthfeel, vintage port is a great accompaniment to a rich, decadent dark chocolate confection. a cake made with tawny port and chocolate Milk chocolate is significantly milder and less bitter than black chocolate.

It has less berry fruit aromas than Ruby or Vintage Port, and it is lighter in color.

Riesling from the late harvest with white chocolate Because white chocolate is the sweetest variety of chocolate, it should be paired with a sweeter wine that complements rather than overpowers the flavors of the chocolate in question.

The grapes, which are almost raisin-like in appearance, provide a dessert wine that is great with white chocolate truffles.

Pairing Dessert and Wine

Are you planning a dinner party? What about a girls’ night out? Or perhaps you’re just searching for a place to have some dessert on the plaza. If you’re like most people, you’ve undoubtedly thought to yourself, “What are the finest dessert wine and food pairings?” Getting started in the realm of wine and dessert pairings might be a difficult task, so don’t get too worked up about it just yet! We are here to assist you! Consider the five pairings listed below, then stop by Mac’s Chophouse in Marietta to experience our variety of made-from-scratch dessert dishes while enjoying a glass of one of our premium wines.

Milk Chocolate and Pinot Noir

It should come as no surprise that milk chocolate is the first item on our list, given that it is a common ingredient in many sweets. A light to medium-bodied wine with fruit taste characteristics complements the sweetness and creaminess of the chocolate the most effectively. Pinot Noir meets all of these requirements, making it a popular option among chocolate connoisseurs throughout.

Crème Brûlée and Champagne

The rich, creamy flavor of Crème Brûlée, as well as the caramelized sugar topping, are what make it so popular. Combine it with sparkling wine, preferably champagne, to provide the ideal ending to any dinner. The elegance and unique taste of champagne, along with its naturally occurring acidity, helps to balance off the richness of cream-based sweets, resulting in a pleasant, well-balanced flavor experience overall.

Banana Cream Pie and Riesling

People all throughout the country like banana cream pie because of its creamy filling, buttery crust, and sweet whipped cream, which has made it a beloved dessert for generations. With its extremely strong acidity, Riesling pairs nicely with the sweetness of the pie, and its taste profile is ideally suited for pairing with fruit from trees. When all of these factors are considered together, this coupling becomes an obvious decision.

Lemon Cake and Sauvignon Blanc

Lemon cake is a simple and easy-to-make cake that is a popular choice among people who want a little bit of zing with their dessert. Cakes with a rich flavor and texture frequently appear to beg to be matched with a fine wine, which is often the case. And it is at this point when Sauvignon Blanc comes into play. Sauvignon Blanc, known for being dry, crisp, and refreshing, lives up to its reputation as one of the world’s most popular white wines, and it pairs nicely with tart and acidic sweets like sorbet and ice cream.

Chocolate Cake and Cabernet Sauvignon

There’s simply something about a delicious chocolate cake that can almost completely alleviate whatever stress you may be feeling. You’ll be floating in the skies if you combine all of that chocolaty sweetness with the tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon. It is often the case that chocolate cake and Cabernet Sauvignon are mixed to make a Cabernet Chocolate Cake, which is really delicious! Dessert and after-dinner drinks may be found at Mac’s Chophouse & Bar. As one of Marietta’s greatest restaurants, presenting some of the best dessert and wine pairings is a no-brainer.

Our signature Homemade Banana Cream Pie, which is available all year long, is sure to please even the most discerning dessert enthusiast.

Our finest wines are available for purchase by the glass or the bottle. As always, the staff at Mac’s Chophouse looks forward to welcoming you to their establishment! To book a reservation, call the following number today: 770-238-1202