This is a wine for those relaxing times when you want to linger over the dessert course — whether it’s a hot summer evening or a cozy winter night. Nectar pours out richly brown and sweetly concentrated. The aroma is lightly floral and fruity, with fresh and dried figs. Hints of minerality play around the edges of nose and palate. Flavors deepen on the palate, with dried figs and raisins, mocha and nuts. Threads of lemony acidity balance the fruit. This is one of the few dessert wines that is sweet enough to be a counterpoint to many different types of desserts. In fact, though, this wine can be the whole dessert itself. Or pair it with sweet desserts packed with fruits or nuts. Serve chilled.
WHO: Gonzalez Byass
WHAT: 100% Pedro Jimenez
WHERE: Jerez, Spain
HOW MUCH: $26 (media sample)