In this recurring feature, members of the Court of Master Sommeliers, an international association of wine experts, suggest pairings for popular menu items. The sommeliers do not have a financial interest in any of their recommendations.

Here, Gillian Balance, beverage director of Cavallo Point in Sausalito, Calif., selects a bargain and premium wine to pair with desserts.

Bargain wine: 2011 Brachetto d’Acqui “Pineto” Marenco, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety: Brachetto
Taste profile: Delicious frizzante wine bursting with berry and cherry aromas. It’s slightly sweet, fizzy and low in alcohol, which makes it a refreshing dessert beverage.
Pairings: A foolproof pairing with lighter chocolate desserts or anything with cherries or berries.
Average wholesale case price: $120 

 

Premium wine: Perucchi Gran Reserva Red Vermouth, Catalonia, Spain

Grape varieties: n/a
Taste profile: Slightly bittersweet with hints of Christmas cookie, cloves and spice.
Pairings: Cabrales cheese with a nice bar of dark chocolate, or just some dark chocolate cookies.
Average wholesale case price: $180 for twelve 1-liter bottles