Wine and chocolate: on paper it seems like a great pairing but in reality, it can be a little bit tricky to find the perfect double act.With such a huge range of flavours across all types of chocolate, not to mention wines and spirits, it makes sense that some pairings will work better than others.
Luckily, there are some general guidelines when it comes to teaming chocolate with wine or even your favourite spirits. Try putting stronger flavours together, for example, or opting for similar - or contrasting – notes.
Ultimately, when it comes to pairing chocolate and wine, personal preference is really the most important thing - and it can be a lot of fun discovering new combinations! O’Briens Wine Director Lynne Coyle Master of Wine has some delicious suggestions to get you started.
What to pair with milk chocolate: Luna Argenta Appassimento
Puglia, Italy
€19.95
If you’re looking for a wine that will really complement the velvety texture of milk chocolate, Lynne suggests this Ripasso-style Italian red (which is a big O’Briens customer favourite!). “Some dried grapes in this wine give a rounded silky ripe mouthfeel,” she explains, “which is a good match for the velvet texture of milk chocolate.”
You can also try: Rum. The sweetness and caramel notes of a good aged rum can pair beautifully with chocolate, balancing out any bitterness. Shop our range of top rums here.
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What to pair with white chocolate: Rizzardi Prosecco Spumante
Prosecco, Italy
€22.95
If you love white chocolate, Lynne suggests teaming a dry Prosecco with white chocolate and raspberries for something a little bit exotic. “The floral aromatics in the wine and freshness of palate are an indulgent but good match with white chocolate,” she explains.
You can also try: Gin. The herbal juniper note in gin can add depth to white chocolate, while the floral notes pair well with the sweetness. Check our fantastic range of gin here.
What to pair with dark chocolate: Longview LV Shiraz-Cabernet
Adelaide Hills, Australia
WAS €18.95 NOW €14.95
“Big reds go well with dark chocolate," Lynne explains. “The Shiraz grape in Longview’s LV Shiraz Cabernet is a good match, with its hints of pepper and spice aligned to the slight bitterness of dark chocolate.”
You can also try: Whiskey. If you’re a whiskey - and a chocolate - fan, you’ll be pleased to hear they can be a lovely match. An aged whiskey can soften the flavour of dark chocolate beautifully. Shop our Irish Whiskey offers here.
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