The words ‘sugar and spice, and all things nice’ have popped up numerous amounts of times since they were first noted in a nursery rhyme dating from the early 19th century. Whilst they might be a popular choice with musicians and filmmakers, they also describe the world of dessert wines perfectly! Dessert wines, also called sweet or pudding wines might not be the height of fashion in todays world with many of us opting for a cool, refreshing glass of dry white wine over an offering of rich, sticky nectar.
However, the faint-hearted amongst us shouldn’t fear the worst as dessert wines are miles from the treacly, honey-filled goo we conjure up in our minds. Even better, none of them will glue your tongue to the roof of your mouth!
Often served after a main course when their delicious citrus and honey flavours can be enjoyed to the full, their acidic backbone helps to prevent the wines from appearing cloyey, whilst maintaining that perfect balance.
With winemakers relying on very ripe harvests in the right climatic conditions to produce the perfect grapes, the production methods of these wines can vary. Grapes may be dried out in the sun like a sunseeker on the east coast, or in some cases the vines develop a fungus known as botrytis cinerea which acts to ‘nobly rot’ the grapes. Grapes are even frozen on the vine to create the luscious, scented Eiswein or Icewine.
Here’s a selection of sweet-filled delights to sip and sing your way into the summer.
Domaine de Leyrissat Monbazillac, France
Golden in colour, this fine Monbazillac has intense notes of honey, blossom, and marmalade on the nose. The palate is smooth and fulfilling, with concentrated flavours of honey and marmalade. The perfect pairing for lemon tart with fresh cream.
Denbies Noble Harvest, Surrey, England
Lusciously sweet with fresh citrus and honeyed pineapple flavours. With a rich, yet elegant and well-structured body, this dessert wine has attractive citrus and botrytised honey notes. Irresistible with fruit desserts.
Seifried Sweet Agnes Riesling, New Zealand
Savour New Zealand’s most awarded dessert wine. Luscious honeyed Riesling named after Agnes – mother of winemaker Heidi and winery manager Chris. The family’s pride and joy displays complex flavours of ripe lime, passion fruit and rosy apple with a swirl of light honey. Simply gorgeous. Delicious with sticky toffee pudding.
Royal Tokaji Blue Label 5 Puttonyos Aszú, Hungary
This Tokaji is made in a traditional manner from the classic blend of Furmint Hàrslevelü and Muskotály grape varieties. A wine with lovely sweetness balanced by a pronounced fresh acidity. Pairs beautifully with lush, fruity puddings.
Kourtaki Cameo Mavrodaphne of Patras NV, Greece
Lusciously sweet with a rich bouquet of dried fruit, this Greek speciality has mouth-filling flavours of raisins, prunes and figs. It’s beautifully aromatic and fantastic value, with a complex palate and a long, persistent finish. Serve with chocolate-based desserts.
