Having a glass of wine with dinner, at the end of a long day, or at a get-together is common amongst adults. And while there are many different brands of wine, and different flavors, sweet wine can be a favorite among those that like to satisfy their sweet tooth with their drink. The different types of sweet wine also give wine drinkers plenty of variety so they don’t get bored with their choice. 

What is sweet wine? 

The question of what is sweet wine is a pretty easy answer when it comes to the basics. A sweet wine is also known as a dessert wine, and there are several different types of sweet wine. There are a couple of main differences between sweet and dry wines, but it mostly comes down to how much sugar is left over after the fermentation process is completed. Sweet wine also has lower levels of tannins after the fermenting process, which doesn’t leave the same dry feeling of other wines. Both red and white wine have their own type of sweet flavors that accompany the different ways they’re made. 

With all of that being said, below you’ll find the different types of sweet wine for both red and white wine!

Types of Sweet Wine: Sweet White Wines

Moscato

Moscato’s are the first and probably one of the more popular types of sweet wine. Moscato’s are formally known as dessert wines and are usually sipped after dinner or at the end of the day. They can be incredibly sweet, and usually have lower alcohol content in comparison with other wines. Moscato’s usually pair well with cream desserts and fruit pastries, and if you prefer to drink Moscato with a meal, then you’re best to pair it with spicier foods or with lighter fare like chicken or fish. 

Sauternes

Sauternes are the next sweet wine on our list. This wine uses a rare type of grape for its fermentation process, and the grapes are already partially raisined when going into the wine-making process. Because of the process of making this kind of wine, they have a distinct flavor. This type of wine can also include a different type of fruit, giving it a different and unique flavor. For this sweet wine, it will pair nicely with cheese, cheesecakes, and fruit desserts. 

Riesling

Riesling is our last sweet white wine on this list. Riesling is a popular wine because it’s versatile and not always as sweet as other wines. It can also include fruity flavors, which makes it pair great with dinner instead of being strictly a dessert wine. This sweet wine will pair great with spicy foods and a vegetarian fare. You can also pair it with chicken and pork meat dishes. 

Types of Sweet Wine: Red Sweet Wines

Port

Port is another classic and well-known sweet wine that also has a dessert wine title. This red wine is heavier and also has a higher alcohol content than most sweet wines.  Because of the type of wine this is, it’s typically drank after a meal. If you do choose to drink it with a meal, you’ll want to pick either something creamy to compliment the flavors, or a type of dessert that will balance out the sweetness. It also has a broad flavor spectrum because of its barrel-aged nature. 

Banyuls

Banyuls is the next dessert wine on the red sweet wine list. This wine is made from a type of grape that can also be used to make sweet wine, giving it the ability to be diverse. Much like Port wines, Banyuls are incredibly sweet, however, their alcohol content is slightly less, and it’s not as heavy as a Port wine. Because of the sweetness, Banyuls are paired great with coffee or chocolate flavors, or creamy desserts. 

Vin Santo

Vin Santo is a sweet wine that can also be fermented to be a dry wine. However, typically it’s used as a dessert wine and can have flavors of chocolate, hazelnut, and honey. Like Port wine, it is full-bodied and has a high alcohol content. Vin Santo traditionally is paired with a biscotti or some type of cookie that will balance out the sweet taste. And if you really want to be authentic or adventurous, you can dip your cookie in the wine and give it a try!

The great thing about having so many choices and different types of sweet wine is it gives you the ability to mix and match which you drink with the current mood. Sweet wines may be dessert wines, but there are a few that can be paired with dinner to give a contrast of flavor and make your meal enjoyable. Whether you prefer a classic red wine, or a delightful white wine you can have multiple favorites across the board and find a wine that suits you. We encourage you to try out different flavors and adventure!