Rivesaltes is a sweet, fortified wine from the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France. With a resemblance in flavor notes and texture to a hearty tawny port, Madeira, and even a bit sherry-like, Rivesaltes can be made from a variety of grapes, including the Grenache grape. As with port, alcohol is added during fermentation to keep the wine sweet while stabilizing it.

The 1967, 1966, 1976, and 1985 are superb late vintages. Aromas of butter, baking spices, tobacco, and balsamic notes explode from the glass. Although sweet, Rivesaltes has a kick: alcohol percentages range in these wines between 16%-17.5% ABV.

A bottle or two of Rivesaltes makes for a special anniversary gift and is the perfect wine to sip with dessert especially around the holidays. Rivesaltes pairs extremely well with foie gras, cashews, prunes, dates, mature goat cheeses, blue cheese, and chocolate. Rivesaltes is typically served slightly chilled.