There is no combination more decadent than wine and chocolate. Both together are like manna from heaven, and they are some of the most romantic gifts you can give: better than the more traditional Valentine's Day combo of Prosecco and chocolate-covered strawberries.
Wine with chocolate is a sophisticated and arguably healthier version of a run-of-the-mill dessert.
If you’re not sure about pairing wine with chocolate, then here are a few compelling reasons that will hopefully compel you into trying it.
Move Against Convention
For some reason, the common wisdom dictates that wine and chocolate don’t mix. In fact, some people may venture to say that it is an entirely disgusting combo. Of course, we beg to differ. Sure, wine and cheese seem to be a natural combo, but chocolate feels off for some people. It all boils down to finding the right type of chocolate that works for the right type of wine, working in conjunction to harmoniously enhance the flavors of both. For example, sometimes the relatively humble yet deeply chocolatey merlot will taste far better if you eat it with a piece of rich, dark chocolate. Trying new combinations and matching the flavors accordingly will open your palate to a wide range of sensory experiences you weren’t expecting.
Embrace Milk Chocolate
Some diehard chocolate connoisseurs think that only seventy or eighty percent dark chocolate bars will do. The kinds that come from single-origin sourced chocolate factories, are usually made in small batches and offered up at insanely high prices. These kinds of chocolate, of course, have their place, but the folks at Santa Barbara Chocolate would also argue that the milk chocolate bar or truffle should be reconsidered. Milk chocolate is an excellent companion for wine, especially since it works for different kinds of wine. Light red wine is especially good since it tends to be higher in acid, and can act as a contrast to the richness of milk chocolate.
Different Rules Apply
When it comes to eating chocolate with wine, you will find that a different set of rules apply in general, some of which can work against our common conception of dessert and drinking. One rule to keep in mind is that you should pair white wines with lighter chocolate, like white or milk chocolate. Also, red wines are usually very good with most dark chocolates, or even filled chocolates. The intensity of each type of food or drink is meant to balance the other out. If you’re having trouble finding the right combination, then you can look through the countless fine dining guides available to you online, and have fun with it. Or, the next time you go to a wine tasting, be sure to ask your sommelier for advice. They’re there to help and love answering questions about wine and chocolate, so don’t be shy to ask.
It’s odd to think that two of the most pleasurable foods - wine and chocolate - are hard to pair together. However, it’s definitely worth the extra effort of figuring out the right pairings, since it gives you an entirely new way to enjoy these terrific delicacies.
