If you want to know the way to desert nirvana, forget about the chocolate and strawberry toppings on your ice cream. The true road to divine decadence is with the three famous fortified desert wines. Yes, I’m talking about Port, Madeira and Sherry. Of course these wines come in all styles, so to know which one to choose for ice cream is essential. For ports choose a ruby (cherry flavors) or tawny (caramel flavors). Malmsey madeira is the best, but a bual can also work in a pinch. Sherries are also a great choice and the ones to look for are your pedro ximénez or cream sherry. To make a bowl of vanilla ice cream into a culinary work of art, you simply pour over one of these sweet beauties and presto; the guests are amazed and dazzled by the aromas and flavors of this lavish but simple desert. Here are some of my picks for great ice cream wines.

Ramos Pintos Collector - aged in wood for about six years gives this port a caramel and toffee flavor.

Noval Raven Ruby - cherry and spice make this a fun port.

Lustau Pedro Ximénez - tons of sweet raisins jump out of this wine, so pour a lot on top.

Osborne Cream Sherry - dried fruits with nutty overtones.

Lustau East India - candied peel, nuts and raisins.

Sandeman Malmsey - rich with burnt caramel notes and a luscious mouth feel.

Justino’s Madeira 3 year old/sweet - fruity with some subtle toasty notes.