Late harvest wines represent a pinnacle of winemaking craftsmanship, showcasing the artful balance between sweetness and acidity. These wines are crafted from grapes left on the vine longer than usual, allowing them to ripen further and intensify their flavors. Late harvest wines come in various styles, each offering a unique tasting experience. Among them, the influence of noble rot (botrytis) on certain grapes adds an extra layer of complexity and richness.

Styles of Late Harvest Wines

Sauternes (France)

Sauternes is an iconic late harvest wine from the Bordeaux region of France. It is primarily made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes. The grapes are affected by botrytis cinerea, a fungus that concentrates the sugars and flavors, resulting in a luscious, honeyed wine with vibrant acidity. Château d’Yquem is the most renowned producer of Sauternes.

SOMM&SOMM recommends: Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes

Trockenbeerenauslese (Germany)

In Germany, Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) wines are produced from individually selected, overripe grapes affected by noble rot. These wines are intensely sweet, with high levels of sugar and acidity. Riesling is the predominant grape variety, and TBAs are often considered some of the finest expressions of German winemaking.

SOMM&SOMM recommends: 2019 Alois Kracher Trockenbeerenauslese No. 4 Zweigelt

Eiswein (Canada and Germany)

Ice wine (Canada) is made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine. The grapes are harvested and pressed while still frozen, extracting only the concentrated sugars. Canadian Ice Wine, particularly from the Niagara Peninsula, is renowned for its balanced sweetness and acidity. Germany also produces Eiswein using a similar method.

SOMM&SOMM recommends: Dr. Loosen Riesling Eiswein

Vin Santo (Italy)

In Italy, Vin Santo is a traditional Tuscan late harvest wine made from white grapes like Trebbiano and Malvasia. The grapes are dried on straw mats before pressing, leading to a rich and nutty wine. Vin Santo is often enjoyed as a dessert wine, accompanied by biscotti. On a related note, Vin Santo is the traditional wine used in a classic Tuscany-style Tiramisù.

Botrytis Cinerea and Its Impact

Botrytis cinerea, commonly known as noble rot, plays a crucial role in the production of some of the world’s finest sweet wines. This beneficial fungus pierces the grape skin, allowing water to evaporate and concentrating sugars and flavors. In addition to enhancing sweetness, noble rot imparts distinctive honey, apricot, and botrytized character to the wine.

Dessert Pairings for Late Harvest Wines

Sauternes: Foie Gras and Roquefort Cheese

Sauternes pairs wonderfully with rich and savory flavors. Foie gras, with its buttery texture and complex taste, complements the sweetness of Sauternes. Roquefort, a blue cheese with a bold flavor profile, creates a delightful contrast that highlights the wine’s acidity.

   Recipe: Foie Gras with Sauternes Reduction

   – Sear foie gras slices in a hot pan until golden.

   – Deglaze the pan with Sauternes, reducing it to a syrupy consistency.

   – Drizzle the reduction over the foie gras and serve with toasted brioche.

Trockenbeerenauslese: Peach Melba

The vibrant acidity of Trockenbeerenauslese cuts through the richness of a classic Peach Melba. The combination of poached peaches, vanilla ice cream, and raspberry sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

   Recipe: Trockenbeerenauslese Poached Peaches

   – Poach peaches in Trockenbeerenauslese, sugar, and vanilla.

   – Serve the peaches over vanilla ice cream and drizzle with a raspberry sauce.

Ice Wine: Apple Tarte Tatin

The natural sweetness of Ice Wine complements the caramelized apples in a classic Tarte Tatin. The acidity in the wine balances the dish, creating a delightful contrast.

   Recipe: Ice Wine Caramel Sauce

   – Reduce Ice Wine in a pan until syrupy.

   – Combine with melted butter and brown sugar for a decadent caramel sauce.

Vin Santo: Cantuccini and Pecorino Cheese

Vin Santo’s nutty and caramelized notes find a perfect match in the crunchy sweetness of Cantuccini (Italian almond biscuits). Pair it with Pecorino cheese for a delightful Tuscan experience.

   Recipe: Homemade Cantuccini

   – Mix almonds, flour, sugar, and eggs to form a dough.

   – Shape into logs, bake, and slice into biscotti. Serve with Vin Santo.

Late harvest wines, with their diverse styles and intricate flavors, offer a captivating journey for wine enthusiasts. Whether it’s the noble rot-infused complexity of Sauternes or the intense sweetness of Trockenbeerenauslese, these wines are a testament to the artistry of winemakers. Paired with classic desserts, the experience becomes a symphony of taste, revealing the cultural and culinary richness that surrounds these exceptional wines. Cheers to the indulgence of late harvest wines and the delightful moments they create! 🍷