Does Apothic have a sweet red?

Answered by Joseph Earl

Apothic does have a sweet red called Apothic Red. This particular wine hails from California and has gained quite a bit of popularity in recent years. However, its sweetness has been a point of contention among wine critics and enthusiasts.

One prominent UK critic, Tim Atkin, has gone so far as to describe Apothic Red as “undrinkable” due to its sweetness. It is worth noting that sweetness in wine is a matter of personal preference, and what one person finds undrinkable, another might find enjoyable. However, it is important to understand the level of sweetness in Apothic Red in order to make an informed decision about whether it is a wine you might enjoy.

Apothic Red contains 16.4 grams per liter of residual sugar. This measurement indicates the amount of sugar left in the wine after fermentation is complete. Residual sugar can contribute to a wine's perceived sweetness, and in the case of Apothic Red, it falls on the sweeter end of the spectrum.

For some wine drinkers, a sweet can be a delightful indulgence. The sweetness can enhance the fruit flavors and create a luscious, dessert-like experience. It can be a great choice for those who have a preference for sweeter wines or enjoy pairing them with desserts. However, for others who prefer drier, more balanced wines, the sweetness of Apothic Red may be overpowering or cloying.

Personally, I have tried Apothic Red and found it to be quite sweet. While I appreciate the bold fruit flavors and velvety texture, the sweetness became a bit overwhelming for my palate. I typically lean towards drier red wines, so the level of residual sugar in Apothic Red was not to my liking. That being said, I have friends who thoroughly enjoy the wine and find it to be a delightful treat.

It is important to note that the perception of sweetness can also be influenced by factors such as acidity and tannins. A wine with higher acidity or tannins can help balance out the sweetness, making it more enjoyable for those who prefer drier wines. However, in the case of Apothic Red, the sweetness seems to dominate, and the lack of balance may be a contributing factor to the criticism it has received.

Apothic Red is indeed a sweet red wine. It has gained a significant following among those who enjoy sweeter wines or are looking for a dessert-like experience. However, its level of sweetness has also led to criticism from wine critics, who deem it undrinkable. Ultimately, whether Apothic Red is a wine you will enjoy depends on your personal taste preferences and tolerance for sweetness.