There’s magic in chocolate, the way it fills you with warmth, the comforting richness, the blissful burst of sweetness or subtle bitterness. It’s no wonder chocolate has long been associated with romance, indulgence, and celebration. But while chocolate alone is a joy, did you know that it makes for a decadent pairing for certain styles of wine?
World Chocolate Day, celebrated globally on July 7th, is the perfect occasion to explore the delicious chemistry between wine and chocolate. These two pleasures might seem like unlikely partners, but when chosen wisely, the pairing is pure alchemy. The tannins, acidity, and fruitiness in wine can complement chocolate’s creaminess, bitterness, or sweetness, creating layers of flavour that dance on your palate.
Yet pairing wine with chocolate isn’t as simple as grabbing any bottle from your shelf. The trick lies in balancing sweetness, bitterness, and texture so neither the wine nor the chocolate overwhelms the other. Whether you’re planning a tasting party, a romantic evening, or simply want to indulge yourself, these three award-winning wines from the Ultimate Drinking Guide 2024 promise perfect pairings for every chocolate lover.
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Vallonné Vin de Passerillage Syrah 2023
When it comes to pairing chocolate and wine, a touch of sweetness in your red can work wonders, and Vallonné Vin de Passerillage Syrah 2023 delivers just that. Hailing from Maharashtra’s Nashik region, this unique Indian Syrah is made in the passerillage style, where grapes are partially dried before fermentation to concentrate flavours and natural sugars.
In the glass, it bursts with aromas of ripe berries, plum jam, and hints of spice. The palate is velvety and lush, offering a gentle sweetness that wraps around notes of dark fruit, gentle tannins, and a whisper of black pepper.
Pair it with dark chocolate truffles or a bittersweet chocolate ganache. The wine’s soft sweetness balances the bitterness of dark chocolate, while its spice adds a delicious complexity. It’s an indulgent combination that feels luxurious yet approachable.
Producer: Vallonné Vineyards
Price: ₹2,000 (Maharashtra)
Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella Ripasso DOC Superiore 2019
Few wines are as perfect for chocolate pairings as Italy’s Valpolicella Ripasso, and the Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella Ripasso DOC Superiore 2019 is an outstanding example. This wine is crafted by “repassing” Valpolicella wine over the dried grape skins left over from Amarone production, infusing it with extra body, depth, and richness.
Expect a bouquet of black cherry, dried fig, and baking spices. On the palate, it’s full-bodied yet elegant, with luscious fruit, gentle tannins, and a lingering, warm finish.
Zenato Ripassa pairs beautifully with milk chocolate or even a hazelnut praline. The wine’s plush fruit flavours mirror the creamy texture of milk chocolate, while its gentle spice highlights nutty, roasted notes. Together, they create a harmonious balance of sweet and savoury, perfect for a cosy dessert course.
Importer: Vbev
Price: ₹6,750 (Maharashtra)
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Domaine Chanson Cote de Nuits-Villages AOC 2019
For those who love a more delicate and earthy pairing, look no further than Burgundy. The Domaine Chanson Cote de Nuits-Villages AOC 2019 is a classic red Burgundy, offering a pure, elegant expression of Pinot Noir.
This wine presents aromas of wild berries, dried flowers, and subtle earthy undertones. The palate is silky and refined, with balanced acidity and gentle tannins that linger softly.
Pair it with white chocolate or a raspberry-infused chocolate bar. The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the sweetness of white chocolate, while its red fruit notes amplify berry flavours, creating a pairing that’s fresh, light, and delightfully complex.
Importer: Gusto
Price: ₹6,999 (Maharashtra)
Here are 5 tips for pairing chocolate with wine:
- Match sweetness levels: Choose a wine that’s at least as sweet as your chocolate to avoid bitterness or imbalance.
- Pair dark chocolate with bold reds: High-cocoa chocolates shine with robust reds like Zinfandel or Shiraz, matching intensity and tannins.
- Milk chocolate loves softer wines: Lighter reds or fruity dessert wines like Pinot Noir or Ruby Port complement milk chocolate’s creamy sweetness.
- White chocolate pairs with aromatic whites: Sweet whites like Moscato d’Asti or Gewürztraminer enhance white chocolate’s buttery texture and delicate flavours.
- Experiment with contrasts: Try salty chocolates with sparkling wines for a playful sweet-salty balance that’s delightfully surprising.
Looking for amazing wine recommendations? Click here to check out the winners of the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024 edition.
