Understanding sweetness in wine
Dry, off-dry or sweet: distinguish sugar from fruit and a round texture.
01
Residual sugar remains after fermentation. A wine can smell of ripe fruit yet be dry: aroma does not measure sweetness.
02
Acidity can make the same amount of sugar feel less obvious. Taste after swallowing: freshness and sweetness can coexist.
03
Label terms are not universal: “dry” and “off-dry” may follow different thresholds by wine type and country. Read them in context.
04
At the table, wine should be at least as sweet as dessert. A little sweetness can soften chilli heat in spicy dishes.
05
To compare, serve two wines at similar temperatures, taste from drier to sweeter and note perceived sugar, acidity and fruit separately.
