What Is Dessert Wine?

Dessert wine is any wine with noticeable sweetness, often achieved through late harvesting, drying grapes, or fortification (adding distilled spirits). These wines are designed to balance sweetness with acidity, offering a harmonious, flavorful experience. Common types include Sauternes, Tokaji, Ice Wine, and fortified wines like Port and Sherry.

Which Dessert Wine Should I Try First?

If you're new to dessert wines, try a classic Port or Moscato d’Asti. Port offers rich, fruity, and nutty flavors with a velvety texture, while Moscato d’Asti is light, bubbly, and sweet with floral and citrus notes. For something more luxurious, explore Sauternes, a golden French wine with honeyed, apricot flavors.

What Foods Pair Well with Dessert Wine?

Dessert wines are incredibly versatile with food. They pair beautifully with:

• Cheese: Blue cheese, aged gouda, or creamy brie.
  
  
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate desserts or chocolate truffles.
  
  
• Fruit-based desserts: Tarts, poached pears, or fruit compotes.
  
  
• Spicy dishes: Sweet wines can balance spicy Asian or Indian dishes.
  
  

How Should I Serve Dessert Wine?

Dessert wines are best served chilled, typically between 45–55°F (7–13°C), depending on the style. Fortified wines like Port and Sherry can be served slightly warmer, around 60°F (15°C). Use smaller glasses to concentrate the rich aromas and flavors, allowing you to savor every sip.

Can Dessert Wine Be Aged?

Yes, many dessert wines improve with age. For example, vintage Ports and Sauternes can develop more complex flavors over decades. However, lighter dessert wines like Moscato d’Asti are meant to be enjoyed young for their fresh, fruity character.

Is Dessert Wine Always Sweet?

While most dessert wines are sweet, some styles like certain Sherries or late-harvest whites may be less sweet or have a balanced sweetness level. Always check the label or description to find the right sweetness level for your taste.

Explore our collection of dessert wines and find the perfect bottle to finish your meal with style. Whether you prefer rich and fortified or light and fruity, dessert wines offer a delightful way to indulge your sweet cravings.