When I say chocolate, you say wine! Wine lovers will agree that pairing wine and chocolate is a Valentine’s Day must. This pairing truly is a match made in heaven, especially when it’s matched well. However, this flavorful duo can often clash due to the sweet yet bitter flavors in chocolate. That being said, it can be tough to match chocolate and wine. Chocolate needs a wine match that can withstand its intensity. Not to worry, I’ve put together a foolproof, top 4 Valentine’s Day chocolate and wine pairing guide.

If you’ve read any of my food and wine pairing blogs, you might already know my first tip: don’t pair a wine with a food that’s sweeter than the wine. While looking for a wine pairing with chocolate can be tough, I’ve outlined a few pairing notes to remove the guessing game.

Sweeter chocolate like milk or white chocolate pairs best with after-dinner wines like a Port that has a significant residual sugar. Dark chocolate pairs nicely with a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. Pairing dark chocolate with a Zinfandel can work but, honestly is a bit risky. If you do try it, make sure it’s on the sweeter side. Chocolate with nuts leans more savory and are much easier to find the perfect wine compliment.

Now for some romantic wine and chocolate pairings:

1. Fudge Brownies and Merlot

One of our go-to chocolate-heavy desserts is brownies! When pairing brownies with wine, I recommend sticking to dry red wines like Merlot or even a Cabernet Sauvignon. Dry red wines will accentuate the chocolatey flavors and withstand their sweetness.

2. Chocolate Devil’s Food Cake and a Red Blend

Red blends that combine a range of varieties like Cabernet or Syrah steal the show when paired with a rich chocolate cake. Combining a chocolate-covered cake and red wine is like an oasis for your palate.

3. Chocolate Mousse and Syrah/Shiraz

The creamy texture and bittersweet taste pair exceptionally with wines that are have berry notes. The spicy, fruity essence of a Syrah will balance the bitterness of the chocolate for the perfect harmony.

4. Chocolate Ice Cream and Zinfandel

Nothing beats a rich and creamy chocolate ice cream. What’s even better is chocolate ice cream paired with the subtle fresh berry notes in red wine. I’d recommend pairing with Zinfandel for the dark bold fruit notes.

Cheers,
Natalie