Simply put, sweet wines are types of wine that have higher levels of residual sugar, which gives them a sweeter taste. There are many different types of sweet wines, each with their own unique flavor and characteristics.
The level of sweetness can also vary within each type of sweet wine and, furthermore, wine regions and winemakers can also have uniquely different styles. For example, some sweet wines can be lighter and fruitier while others can be richer and more complex.
Here's some common types of sweet wines you may (or may not) be familiar with:
- Riesling: One of the more classic sweet wine grapes known for its balance of sweetness and acidity. World-renowned Rieslings are typically produced in Germany, Austria, and Alsace, however, high quality Rieslings are also being produced from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. They have a fruity, floral aroma and a crisp, clean taste.
- Sauternes: Sauternes is a sweet wine originating from the prestigious wine region of Bordeaux, France. It is made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes. These wines have a rich, complex flavor with notes of honey and apricot.
- Moscato: Moscato is a sweet, sparkling wine made in Italy. It has a wonderful fruity aroma and a light, refreshing taste making them a perfect match to pair with decadent desserts.
- Port: Port is a sweet, fortified wine made in Portugal. It is made from a blend of grapes and aged in oak barrels. These wines have a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of chocolate and black cherry. Common grape varieties include Donzelinho Branco, Gouveio, Rabigato, Malvasia Fina, Viosinho, Cerceal and Bical.
- Late Harvest: Late harvest wines are made from grapes that have been left on the vine longer than usual. This method allows the grapes to become very ripe, which results in a sweeter taste. Late harvest wines can be found in many wines regions across the globe, including the United States, France, and Germany.
- Dessert wines: These are wines that are typically served as a dessert or with dessert. They are usually sweeter than other types of wine and have a higher alcohol content. Examples include Sauternes, Late Harvest Riesling, and Icewine.
- Fortified wines: These are wines that are blended with a spirit, such as brandy. This increases their alcohol content and gives them a much sweeter, richer flavor profile. Examples include Port, Madeira, and Sherry.
- Chenin Blanc: A dry chenin blanc can also be made in a sweet style which is also known as "Chenin Blanc Moelleux" or "Chenin Blanc Doux" – these are sweeter styles of wine made in the Loire Valley of France.
- Gewürztraminer: This is a white wine is known for its unique aroma, with notes of lychee and spice, and subtle hints of sweetness. It's often made in Alsace, France, and Germany.
Are sweet wines typically red or white?
Known for their fruity, floral aromas and crisp, clean taste, sweet white wines such as Moscato, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, and Gewürztraminer are a lot more common than sweet red wines such as Late Harvest Zinfandel, Port, and Madeira, which are known for their rich, full-bodied flavor and higher alcohol content.
However, fortified wines like Port, Madeira, and Sherry are typically red and have a sweeter and richer flavor due to the addition of spirits like brandy.
Dessert wines like Sauternes, Tokaji, and Ice wine are also available in both red and white.
Why are sweet wines a popular choice?
Sweet wines can be a popular choice for lots of wine lovers, and for a variety of reasons, here's just a few common ones:
- Balance: Many sweet wines have a lovely balance of sweetness and acidity, which gives them a refreshing taste without being too sweet, making them an ideal pairing for a variety of different foods, such as desserts, spicy dishes, and even some savory options.
- Versatility: The wide variety of sweet wines available makes it easy to find that perfect match for different preferences, palates and occasions, from a sparkling Moscato to a rich Port.
- Dessert pairing: Sweet wines are the obvious pairing for desserts and can even be served as a dessert in and of themselves. They can also enhance the flavors of sweet desserts, making the overall experience that much more enjoyable.
- Relaxation: Sweet wines are often linked with relaxation and comfort, perfect for when time slows down a bit on a quiet lazy afternoon or after an exhausting long day.
- Sweetness level: Many wine lovers prefer sweet wines because they have a lower level of bitterness or tannins compared to dry wines.
Ultimately, sweet wines have a broad appeal, and their popularity can be attributed to a combination of their taste, versatility, and the occasions and moods they are often associated with.
How best to enjoy sweet wine?
Here are some tips on how to best enjoy sweet wine:
- Serve it chilled: Sweet wines are best enjoyed when served slightly chilled, around 50-55°F (10-13°C). This helps bring out the flavors and aromas of the wine.
- Pair it with food: Sweet wines are often paired with desserts or cheese, as their sweetness can complement and enhance the flavors of sweet dishes. They can also be paired with spicy foods, as the sweetness can help balance out the heat.
- Sip and savor: Sweet wines are often enjoyed as a dessert in and of themselves, so take your time to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas.
- Experiment with different styles: Given the many different types of sweet wines available, each with their own unique flavor and characteristics, try experimenting with different styles to find the one that best suits your taste. Additionally, look for the sweetness level indication, like "late harvest" or "botrytis cinerea" to en sure the wine is sweet enough for your taste.
- Consider the occasion: As often enjoyed as a drink of relaxation and comfort, they can also be enjoyed as part of a special occasion, such as a celebration or a romantic dinner.
Ultimately, the best way to enjoy sweet wine is to experiment and find what works best for you. Sweet wines offer a wide range of flavors and aromas, and with the right pairing and serving method, they can be a delightful and satisfying experience.
