Vins doux naturels is a French term that literally translates to "naturally sweet wines." It refers to a specific style of fortified wines produced in France, known for their natural sweetness.
These wines are typically made from grapes with higher sugar levels at the time of harvest. The winemaking process involves arresting the fermentation to preserve a portion of the original grape sugars, resulting in a sweet taste. This is achieved by adding a neutral grape spirit, such as brandy, to the fermenting grape juice. The addition of the spirit stops the fermentation process and preserves the natural sweetness of the wine.
Vins doux naturels can be made from various grape varietals, including Muscat, Grenache, and Malmsey. The production of these wines is predominantly found in the regions of Roussillon and Languedoc in southern France.
These wines are characterized by their luscious sweetness, rich flavors, and complex aroma profiles. They often exhibit notes of dried fruits, honey, nuts, and spices. Vins doux naturels can have a wide range of sweetness levels, with some being moderately sweet and others being intensely sweet.
These wines are commonly enjoyed as dessert wines or after-dinner treats. They can be served slightly chilled to enhance their refreshing qualities while balancing the sweetness. Vins doux naturels are highly regarded for their ability to age well and develop more nuanced flavors over time.
