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Enjoy Aphrodise responsibly with friends and family on any occasion and experience The Season That Never Ends.
What Determines Sweetness?
The sweetness in sparkling wine primarily comes from the residual sugar left in the wine after fermentation. During the winemaking process, yeast consumes sugar from the grapes and converts it into alcohol. Not all of this sugar is consumed, leaving behind some residual sugar in the wine which influences its sweetness level. This residual sugar can range from almost none to quite a lot, creating a broad spectrum of sweetness.
Brut and extra brut sparkling wines are very dry wines containing very little residual sugar, giving them a crisp, clean, refreshing taste. These wines typically have an acidic, minerally, and sometimes toasty flavour profile. These complex wines are perfect for those who prefer a sharp, crisp finish to their sparkling wine without any hint of sweetness. Brut sparkling wine pairs well with seafood, sushi, and soft cheeses, making them a popular choice for pairing with an elegant dinner.
Extra sec sparkling wines have a slightly higher residual sugar level than brut and extra brut wines. For this reason, these wines usually offer a hint of sweetness without being overwhelmingly sugary. The touch of sweetness softens the acidity and balances the wine, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a wine that feels a bit smoother but is still crisp and fresh. Extra sec sparkling wines pair wonderfully with lightly spiced dishes, roast chicken, and mild cheeses.
Sec sparkling wines have a more pronounced sweetness. These sparkling wines, such as our rich and decadent Aphrodise sparkling rosé, strike a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, making them more fruit-forward and rich in flavour. While still refreshing, they feel smoother on the palate. Sec sparkling wines can be paired with an enormous range of sweet and savoury dishes but are truly exceptional when paired with desserts like fruit tarts and lighter cakes.
Demi-sec and doux sparkling wines are some of the sweetest sparkling wines on the market, with demi-sec being very sweet and doux being the richest and sweetest of the bunch. These wines are full of lush, fruity flavours, often with notes of honey, tropical fruits, or candied citrus. The sweetness is the defining characteristic, but good acidity will help to maintain balance and prevent the wine from feeling cloying. Demi-sec or doux wines are excellent choices for pairing with rich desserts such as chocolate cake and cream pastries, making them perfect for indulgent occasions.
