It’s nearly Valentine’s Day – at Norman Goodfellows, we adore this time, because we get to help you make loving memories through our premium offering of worldclass spirits, wines, beers – any and every libation that sparks that romantic fire.
And in this post we’re talking celebrating V-Day in the most decadent way – with our gorgeous dessert wines. In this guide, we’ll delve into the saccharine universe of premium dessert wines available at Norman Goodfellows. Get ready to embark on a journey of flavour and sophistication, finding the perfect sweet elixir for your special moments.
Exploring Dessert Wines
Welcome to the article where we’re talking symphonies of sweetness and complexity in the form of wine. Let’s unveil the unique characteristics that make dessert wines special, explore the various types ranging from fortified to late harvest, and discover the treasure trove of flavours within South African dessert wines.
Unveiling the Indulgence: What Makes Dessert Wines Special
- Concentrated Sweetness:
- Dessert wines are known for their concentrated sweetness, offering a luxurious and indulgent experience. The grapes used for these wines are often left on the vine longer, allowing them to develop higher sugar levels.
- Balanced Acidity:
- Despite their sweetness, quality dessert wines maintain a balance of acidity. This balance is crucial for preventing the wines from becoming cloying, ensuring a harmonious and enjoyable drinking experience.
- Rich and Complex Flavors:
- Dessert wines boast a spectrum of rich and complex flavours. Notes of honey, dried fruits, nuts, and even botanicals contribute to the multifaceted profile that makes each dessert wine unique.
Types of Dessert Wines: From Fortified to Late Harvest
- Fortified Dessert Wines:
- Explore the fortified category, which includes wines like Port and Sherry. Fortified dessert wines have additional alcohol added, often in the form of grape spirits, resulting in a higher alcohol content and a unique flavour profile.
- Late Harvest Dessert Wines:
- Delight in late harvest dessert wines, where grapes are left on the vine past normal harvesting time to achieve higher sugar levels. This natural concentration of sugars imparts a luscious sweetness to the wine.
- Botrytised Dessert Wines:
- Experience the magic of botrytised dessert wines, where grapes undergo noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This fungus dehydrates the grapes, intensifying their sweetness and concentrating flavours, creating exquisite wines like Sauternes.
South African Dessert Wines: A Treasure Trove of Flavours
- Noble Late Harvest (NLH):
- Explore Noble Late Harvest (NLH) wines from South Africa. These late-harvested grapes are affected by botrytis, resulting in intensely sweet and flavourful wines with a South African terroir twist.
- Muscat-based Dessert Wines:
- Discover Muscat-based dessert wines from South Africa. Muscat grapes, with their aromatic and floral qualities, contribute to dessert wines that are both sweet and fragrant, offering a delightful sensory experience.
- Port-style Wines:
- Indulge in South African Port-style wines. Crafted in the tradition of Portugal’s famous Port wines, these South African counterparts exhibit rich, fortified sweetness and often showcase a marriage of traditional and modern winemaking techniques.
Dessert Wine Pairing Extravaganza
Unlock the perfect pairing of dessert wines with cheese, discover the indulgent harmony of pairing dessert wines with chocolate, and create culinary magic with dessert wine pairings designed to delight every palate.
Unlocking the Perfect Pairing: Dessert Wines and Cheese
- Blue Cheese with Port:
- Experience the classic pairing of blue cheese with Port. The rich, fortified sweetness of Port complements the bold flavours of blue cheese, creating a decadent combination that lingers on the palate.
- Brie and Late Harvest Riesling:
- Delight in the pairing of Brie cheese with Late Harvest Riesling. The honeyed sweetness and vibrant acidity of the Riesling beautifully balance the creamy texture of Brie, offering a harmonious fusion of flavours.
- Goat Cheese and Muscat:
- Elevate goat cheese with a Muscat-based dessert wine. The floral and aromatic qualities of Muscat enhance the earthy notes of goat cheese, creating a delightful pairing that dances on the taste buds.
Indulgent Harmony: Pairing Dessert Wines with Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate and Tawny Port:
- Indulge in the decadence of dark chocolate paired with Tawny Port. The nutty and caramel notes of Tawny Port complement the richness of dark chocolate, resulting in a sumptuous and luxurious combination.
- Milk Chocolate and Ruby Port:
- Experience the sweetness of milk chocolate alongside Ruby Port. The vibrant fruitiness of Ruby Port provides a delightful contrast to the creaminess of milk chocolate, creating a harmonious and joyful pairing.
- White Chocolate and Late Harvest Chenin Blanc:
- Explore the subtle sweetness of white chocolate with Late Harvest Chenin Blanc. The tropical fruit flavours and honeyed notes of the Chenin Blanc add depth to the delicate sweetness of white chocolate.
Creating Culinary Magic: Dessert Wine Pairings for Every Palate
- Fruit-Based Desserts with Botrytised Wine:
- Pair fruit-based desserts with botrytised dessert wines. The concentrated sweetness and complex flavours of botrytised wines enhance the fruity notes of desserts like peach cobbler or apple pie.
- Spiced Desserts with Ice Wine:
- Spice up your dessert pairing with ice wine. The intense sweetness and acidity of ice wine complement the warm spices in desserts like gingerbread or cinnamon-infused pastries.
- Nutty Desserts with Pedro Ximénez Sherry:
- Savor nutty desserts with Pedro Ximénez Sherry. The rich, raisin-like sweetness of this Sherry variety harmonises with the flavours of desserts featuring nuts, such as pecan pie or almond torte.
Tips for Dessert Wine Pairing Extravaganza
- Intensity Matching:
- Match the intensity of the dessert wine with the richness of the dessert. Lighter dessert wines pair well with delicate desserts, while more intense wines complement richer, more decadent treats.
- Contrasting and Complementing Flavors:
- Experiment with contrasting and complementary flavours. The interplay of contrasting flavours can create excitement, while complementary pairings provide a seamless and enjoyable experience.
- Temperature Consideration:
- Serve dessert wines at the right temperature. Chilled dessert wines like Ice Wine or Late Harvest wines enhance the refreshing quality, while fortified wines like Port benefit from a slightly warmer serving temperature.
How to Buy Dessert Wine
Unlock the world of dessert wines with expert guidance on navigating the selection process, explore the Norman Goodfellows advantage with curated expertise and premium offerings, and experience the convenience at your fingertips through online ordering for effortless dessert wine purchases.
Navigating the Selection Process: Tips for Buying Dessert Wines
- Understand Your Preferences:
- Begin by understanding your preferences. Whether you lean towards fortified dessert wines like Port or opt for the elegance of late harvest wines, knowing your taste profile helps narrow down your options.
- Consider Dessert Pairing:
- Consider the desserts you enjoy or plan to pair with the wine. Some dessert wines excel with chocolate, while others complement fruity or nutty desserts. Matching the wine to your preferred treats enhances the overall tasting experience.
- Explore Different Styles:
- Explore the various styles of dessert wines. From botrytised wines with noble rot influence to fortified wines like Sherry and Marsala, each style offers unique characteristics. Trying different styles allows you to discover your favourites.
The Norman Goodfellows Advantage: Curated Expertise and Premium Offerings
- Expert Curation:
- Benefit from expert curation at Norman Goodfellows. Our selection of dessert wines is curated by knowledgeable experts who prioritise quality, ensuring that every bottle meets the highest standards of craftsmanship.
- Premium Offerings:
- Indulge in premium dessert wine offerings. Norman Goodfellows prides itself on offering a selection of premium and rare dessert wines, providing connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike with access to exceptional and exclusive bottles.
- Tasting Notes and Recommendations:
- Explore detailed tasting notes and recommendations. Norman Goodfellows provides informative resources to guide your selection, offering insights into flavour profiles, suggested pairings, and expert recommendations to enhance your dessert wine journey.
Convenience at Your Fingertips: Online Ordering for Effortless Purchases
- User-Friendly Online Platform:
- Experience the ease of our user-friendly online platform. Norman Goodfellows’ website is designed for effortless navigation, allowing you to browse our curated dessert wine selection, read descriptions, and make informed choices.
- Secure and Convenient Transactions:
- Enjoy secure and convenient online transactions. Norman Goodfellows ensures that your online purchases are protected, providing a seamless and trustworthy platform for acquiring your desired dessert wines.
- Nationwide Delivery:
- Benefit from nationwide delivery services. Norman Goodfellows’ reach extends across the country, allowing you to have premium dessert wines delivered to your doorstep, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable shopping experience.
- Gift Options and Personalisation:
- Explore gift options and personalisation services. Whether you’re buying dessert wines for yourself or as a gift, Norman Goodfellows offers elegant packaging and customisable options, adding a touch of sophistication to your purchase.
Norman Goodfellows, where indulgence meets elegance, invites you to create unforgettable moments with premium dessert wines. Here’s to love, sweetness, and the delightful symphony of flavours that make Valentine’s Day truly special. Cheers to an evening filled with love and extraordinary dessert wine delights!
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes dessert wine from other types of wine?
Dessert wines are typically sweeter than other wines, as they contain more residual sugar. This sweetness is achieved through various methods, such as late harvesting, drying the grapes, or stopping fermentation early. Common types include Sauternes, Port, Ice Wine, and Late Harvest wines.
Are there non-alcoholic dessert wine alternatives?
Yes, there are non-alcoholic dessert wine options. Additionally, you can explore grape juice concentrates or sparkling cider for a sweet experience without the alcohol content.
What dessert wine pairs best with chocolate?
Pairing dessert wine with chocolate can be delightful. Opt for a rich and sweet wine like Port, Banyuls, or a late-harvest Zinfandel. Dark chocolate tends to pair well with red dessert wines, while milk chocolate goes nicely with a lighter Port or a sweet Riesling.
Do I need special glassware for serving dessert wine?
While not strictly necessary, using specific glassware can enhance the tasting experience. Choose small glasses with a tulip shape to concentrate the aromas. For sparkling dessert wines, opt for flute-shaped glasses to preserve the bubbles. Ultimately, using the right glass can help highlight the unique characteristics of each dessert wine.