Pairing wine with food is an art that can elevate both elements to a whole new level of enjoyment. While the classic associations between wine and gourmet dishes are well-known, there’s a world of unexpected pairings that can bring equal delight to your palate.
From salty snacks to rich chocolates, this article explores 15 unique and intriguing wine and snack pairings that promise to surprise and delight, offering both novices and connoisseurs a fresh approach to wine tasting.
15. Port and Roasted Nuts
Port wine’s rich, sweet flavors harmonize beautifully with roasted nuts. Tawny Port, with its nutty caramel notes, pairs exceptionally well with almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts. The wine’s sweetness complements the nuts’ roasted flavors, while its high alcohol content cuts through their natural oils, creating a luxurious tasting experience.
14. Albariño and Salt and Vinegar Chips
The crisp, citrusy notes of Albariño perfectly complement the tangy punch of salt and vinegar chips. This Spanish white wine’s high acidity and subtle saltiness balance the intense flavors of the chips, while its fruity undertones provide a refreshing contrast. The pairing creates a delightful interplay of flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
13. Merlot and Baked Brie
Indulge in the perfect harmony of a velvety Merlot paired with creamy baked Brie. The wine’s soft tannins and fruity notes complement the rich, melted cheese beautifully. Enhance the experience by topping the Brie with cranberry compote or roasted grapes, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your guests.
12. Moscato and Fresh Fruit Salad
Elevate your summer gatherings with a refreshing Moscato and fruit salad pairing. The wine’s sweet, floral notes complement a mix of berries, grapes, and stone fruits. For an extra twist, create a Moscato drizzle by reducing the wine with sugar, then pour it over the fruit for a boozy kick.
11. Zinfandel and BBQ Chips
Zinfandel’s bold, fruity profile perfectly complements the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chips. The wine’s peppery notes and high alcohol content stand up to the chips’ intense seasoning, while its jammy fruit flavors balance the savory barbecue taste. This pairing offers a delightful contrast of sweet and spicy.
10. Syrah and Beef Jerky
Syrah’s bold, peppery notes perfectly complement the savory richness of beef jerky. This full-bodied red wine, with its high tannin content and intense flavors, enhances the jerky’s umami taste. For spicier jerky varieties, opt for a fruity Shiraz to balance the heat.
9. Rosé and Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon
This classic Italian appetizer pairs beautifully with a crisp rosé. The wine’s light, fruity notes complement the sweet melon, while its acidity cuts through the salty prosciutto. Opt for a dry Provence rosé to balance the flavors. The refreshing combination is perfect for summer gatherings or as an elegant starter.
8. Prosecco and Goldfish Crackers
The bubbly effervescence of Prosecco perfectly complements the cheesy, salty crunch of Goldfish crackers. This unexpected pairing creates a delightful contrast between the wine’s crisp acidity and the snack’s savory flavor. The sparkling wine’s light body and fruity notes enhance the crackers’ subtle cheese taste, making for a surprisingly sophisticated yet playful combination.
7. Malbec and Dark Chocolate Truffles
Indulge in the rich combination of Malbec wine and dark chocolate truffles. The wine’s deep fruity notes of blackberry and plum complement the intense cocoa flavors, while its hints of vanilla and tobacco add complexity. This pairing creates a luxurious taste experience, with the wine’s medium tannins balancing the truffle’s sweetness perfectly.
6. Pinot Noir and Goat Cheese
While Sauvignon Blanc is the classic pairing, Pinot Noir offers a delightful twist with goat cheese. The wine’s light body and bright acidity complement the cheese’s tangy flavor, while its red fruit notes create a harmonious contrast. Opt for a cool-climate Pinot Noir to enhance the pairing’s freshness and complexity.
5. Sauvignon Blanc and Spicy Cheetos
Elevate your snack game with this unexpected pairing. The crisp acidity and herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complement the fiery kick of Spicy Cheetos. The wine’s citrusy flavors help cool the heat while enhancing the cheesy goodness. This combination offers a delightful contrast of sophisticated and indulgent flavors.
4. Chardonnay and Buttered Popcorn
Elevate movie night with this classic pairing. A buttery Chardonnay complements the rich, savory flavors of buttered popcorn perfectly. The wine’s creamy texture and notes of vanilla enhance the popcorn’s buttery goodness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Opt for an oaked Chardonnay from Napa Valley for the ultimate indulgence.
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3. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cheez-Its
The bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon complement the salty, cheesy goodness of Cheez-Its perfectly. The wine’s tannins cut through the richness of the crackers, while its dark fruit notes provide a delightful contrast. This unexpected pairing elevates the humble Cheez-It to gourmet status, making it a fun and sophisticated snack option.
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2. Riesling and Sour Patch Kids
The sweet-tart flavor of Sour Patch Kids finds its perfect match in a crisp Riesling. The wine’s natural acidity complements the candy’s sourness, while its fruity notes enhance the sweetness. This unexpected pairing creates a delightful balance of flavors, making it a fun and adventurous combination for wine enthusiasts and candy lovers alike.
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1. Champagne and Potato Chips
Elevate your snacking game with this unexpected yet delightful pairing. The crisp acidity and effervescence of champagne perfectly complement the salty, greasy nature of potato chips. The bubbles cut through the fat, cleansing your palate and enhancing the flavors of both the chips and the wine. Opt for plain or lightly salted chips to fully appreciate this luxurious combination.
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