10/04/2023
Almost Late harvest, let's see what it is:
Late harvest wine is a type of dessert wine made from grapes that are left on the vine longer than usual, well past the regular harvest season. The extended time on the vine allows the grapes to become very ripe, often with high sugar levels, which contributes to their characteristic sweetness. Here are some key features of late harvest wines:
Grapes and Ripening: Late harvest wines are typically made from grape varieties that can withstand extended ripening without developing undesirable characteristics. Common grape varieties used for late harvest wines include Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Chenin Blanc, and Sémillon.
Natural Sugar Concentration: During the extended ripening period, the grapes accumulate sugars, and their flavors become more concentrated. This results in a sweeter and more complex flavor profile.
Harvest Timing: The decision to make late harvest wine is often based on the condition of the grapes and the development of Botrytis cinerea, also known as "noble rot." This fungal infection can cause grapes to shrivel, concentrating their sugars and flavors. The grapes are usually harvested individually, selecting only those affected by noble rot or very ripe grapes.
Production Process: After harvesting, the grapes are pressed to extract their sweet juice. The juice is then fermented, but fermentation may be intentionally stopped before all the sugar is converted to alcohol, leaving residual sugar in the wine. This is what gives late harvest wines their sweet taste.
Flavor Profile: Late harvest wines typically exhibit flavors of honey, apricot, peach, tropical fruits, and sometimes even botrytis-driven notes of marmalade and spices. They are known for their rich, luscious, and syrupy texture.
Dessert Pairing: Due to their sweetness, late harvest wines are often served as dessert wines. They pair well with a variety of desserts, such as fruit tarts, crème brûlée, cheesecake, and blue cheese. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat.
Late harvest wines vary in sweetness levels, with some being relatively sweet and others reaching levels of extreme sweetness. The specific terms used to describe the sweetness of late harvest wines may include "late harvest," "select late harvest," or "noble late harvest," depending on the region and wine regulations.
These wines are a delightful choice for those who appreciate sweet, indulgent wines and can be a fantastic way to end a meal or celebrate a special occasion.
