Red wine and chocolate pairings

Red wine and chocolate pairings

by Emma Lombard October 29, 2024

In celebration of National Chocolate Day, we’re delving into some of the most luxurious red wine and chocolate pairings. Rich, complex, and layered with flavors, these combinations bring out the best in both worlds. For lovers of decadence, this is the ultimate guide to indulging the senses.

Pairing suggestions for the ultimate indulgence:

Dark chocolate's deep, slightly bitter flavor profile requires a wine that can hold its own against this intensity. A robust Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal, balancing the chocolate's complexity with dark berry undertones, hints of tobacco, and earthy notes. Opus One, with its rich, layered flavors, emphasizes the depth in dark chocolate, creating a harmony between the wine's bold structure and the chocolate’s intensity. This pairing is perfect for those who appreciate a touch of sophistication in every bite.

The creamy sweetness of milk chocolate pairs wonderfully with a softer, fruit-forward wine. Merlot, known for its velvety texture and softer tannins, perfectly complements milk chocolate without overpowering its mild flavors. Massetino, the younger sibling of the renowned Masseto, boasts layers of red fruit and nuanced complexity that beautifully enhance milk chocolate’s gentle sweetness, resulting in a balanced and indulgent pairing.

When pairing chocolate with berries, such as chocolate-covered strawberries or raspberries, a wine that enhances the fruit's natural sweetness while complementing the chocolate's richness is key. Pinot Noir, with its red berry notes and lively acidity, is an excellent choice. Felton Road's Block 5 Pinot Noir showcases concentrated berry flavors and a refreshing acidity that accentuates the fruitiness of the berries and intensifies the chocolate’s smoothness, making for a delightful pairing.

Caramel chocolate, with its sweet and buttery profile, pairs exquisitely with a wine that mirrors its richness. Vintage Port, known for its intense fruitiness and velvety finish, brings out the best in caramel chocolate. Taylor’s Vintage Port offers deep flavors of dark fruits and a smooth, luxurious texture that melds with the caramel, creating an indulgent experience with a lingering, satisfying finish.

The addition of sea salt to chocolate introduces a savory edge that demands a wine with structure and a hint of spice. Syrah, known for its bold flavors and peppery undertones, is the perfect match. Penfolds Grange offers layers of blackberry, plum, and black pepper spice, adding complexity to the pairing and enhancing the saltiness of the chocolate. Together, they create a symphony of flavors that’s savory, spicy, and sweet.

Coconut's subtle sweetness and tropical notes call for a wine that’s fruit-forward yet slightly earthy. Grenache, with its berry flavors and earthy undertones, is a delightful match. Château Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with its strawberry and raspberry notes, beautifully complements the tropical hints of coconut, resulting in a light yet indulgent experience. This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy a touch of the exotic with their chocolate.


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