Dessert wine – not something for everyday, but a sweet, seasonal sensation!
As the days grow shorter, and the air turns crisp, the holiday season approaches with the promise of festive cheer, decadent meals and, of course, exceptional wines.
This Christmas, why not elevate your celebrations with a touch of sweetness? Sweet wines or dessert wines, with their luxurious flavours and versatility can be the perfect companion for festive feasts, both sweet and savoury. In this post, we'll explore the world of sweet wines and how they can add a touch of magic to your holiday season.
1. Embrace Tradition with Port
Start your sweet wine journey with the timeless elegance of Port wine.
Hailing from the picturesque vineyards of Portugal's Douro Valley, Port is a fortified wine known for its rich, luscious flavours and striking intensity.
The sweetest and richest variations, such as Quinta de la Rosa LBV 2018 is brimming with notes of dark fruit, violet and mocha tones. Served alongside dark-berry based desserts or good quality dark chocolate, it is simply a match made in sweet heaven.
If you prefer your Port a little more subtle and perhaps, not quite so sweet and luscious, Tawny Port when paired with a plate of delectable blue cheeses or a slice of fruitcake, is sure to banish the winter blues.
2. Revel in the Beauty of Sauternes:
For those seeking an exquisite, sweet wine experience, look no further than Sauternes. This French wine, made in the Sauternes region of Bordeaux, is crafted from noble rot-infected grapes, resulting in an elixir of honeyed apricots, marmalade, and a delightful acidity.
Sauternes is a fantastic match for desserts like crème brûlée, foie gras, or a classic Buche de Noël. Sauternes when paired with blue cheeses like Stilton and Roquefort is a festive classic.
Umani Ronchi pay homage to the classic wines of Sauternes, in the form of Maximo – a unique sweet wine that echoes Sauternes, with all the Italian flair and pedigree the producer is known for.
3. Warm Up with Mulled Wine
If you're in the mood for something comforting and spiced, why not prepare a batch of mulled wine?
Typically made with a soft, fruity (and not so expensive) red wine, sweetened with sugar, and infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, mulled wine is the embodiment of winter relaxation.
It's perfect for sipping by the fire or serving as a welcoming drink when guests arrive.
4. Riesling's Versatility
For those who prefer a versatile sweet wine, look no further than Riesling. Hailing from Germany, Riesling offers a spectrum of sweetness levels, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. It's an ideal match for a variety of holiday dishes, from glazed ham to spicy Thai or Indian fare. Keep an eye out for the New World offerings also, Forrest Estate, New Zealand make a wonderful Botrytis Riesling, simply superb with Panettone or a bountiful cheese board.
5. Don’t forget about California
Many of us know of the joy that California and its wines showcase.
Perhaps the sweet wines are lesser-spotted and deserve a place at your festive table. The Elysium Black Muscat will pair magnificently with any cream based desserts, think Festive Trifle or fruit based desserts.
As a tongue-in-cheek homage to Port, Quady produce a fantastically rich and decadent port style wine, aptly named, Starboard.
This Christmas, elevate your festivities with the enchanting world of sweet wines. Whether you opt for the timeless allure of Port, the elegance of Sauternes, the warmth of mulled wine, or the versatility of Riesling, sweet wines have the power to transform your celebrations into something truly magical.
So, uncork a bottle, savour the sweetness, and raise your glass to the most wonderful time of the year!
Cheers to a joyous and sweet Christmas season.
