Beverage | Vegetarian

Sweet Red Wine

Vitis vinifera (fermented product) Allergens: Sulfites
Sweet Red Wine

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Vitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grapes (Vitis vinifera)

The Forktionary Angle

"Often overlooked, sweet red wines offer a complex range from light frizzante to rich, fortified styles, making them versatile for pairing."

Definition

Alcoholic beverage made from fermented red grapes, characterized by its residual sugar, offering a sweet and often rich flavor profile.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Fruity (Berry, Plum), Caramel, Raisin, Alcohol
TextureSmooth, Slightly Viscous
AromaFruity, Oak (if aged), Spice, Alcohol
AcidityLow-Medium

Technical Metrics

Common Styles

Port, Lambrusco Dolce, Brachetto d'Acqui

Residual Sugar

>45 g/L

Serving Temperature

55-60°F (12-15°C)

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 glass (100ml)
Calories160 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.1 g
Total Carbohydrate14 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars14 g
Calcium9 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium70 mg

Chef’s Secret

Reduce sweet red wine with herbs like rosemary or thyme to create a rich, glossy sauce for roasted meats or a luxurious syrup for desserts.

Substitutions

Best Match

Red Grape Juice

1:1

Non-alcoholic, offers sweetness and fruitiness. Good for sauces and glazes.

Cranberry Juice (sweetened)

1:1

Adds tartness and fruit flavor, good for poultry or pork dishes.

Dry Red Wine + Sugar

1:1 wine, add sugar to taste

For a more complex flavor with adjustable sweetness. Good for cooking.

Sherry (sweet)

1:1

Fortified wine with nutty, caramel notes. Excellent for desserts and savory dishes.

Buying Guide

Look for specific types like Port, Late Harvest Zinfandel, or Moscato Rosso. Check for vintage.

Flavor Pairings

Chocolate Blue Cheese Nuts Berries Roast Duck Rich Desserts.

Recipes Using Sweet Red Wine

Aunt Phyllis Passover Haroset Charoset image 165
Refrigerator Occasion Fruit Small Appliance

Aunt Phyllis Passover Haroset Charoset

Experience the rich, complex flavors of Aunt Phyllis' traditional Sephardic haroset! This Passover staple is bursting with delicious sweetness and texture, perfect for your Seder plate. Made with [list key ingredients here, e.g., dates, apples, and walnuts], this recipe is easy to follow and will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Prepare to impress your family and guests with this unforgettable haroset recipe.

See Complete Recipe