Celebrating International Chocolate Day: Wine and Chocolate Pairing
To commemorate International Chocolate Day on September 13th, we propose a sublime combination: chocolate and wine, along with some pairing tips to help you enjoy these two pleasures.
Important: The intensity of cacao and wine
The pairing between chocolate and wine is about finding a balance between the intensity of the cacao and the body of the wine. As with other pairings, the basic principle is that neither should overpower the other. Here are some recommendations for pairing different types of chocolate with DOCa Rioja wines.
Dark chocolate and full-bodied wines
Dark chocolate, with its high cacao content and intense bitter flavour, requires a full-bodied wine to balance its strength. Wines made from the Tempranillo grape variety are ideal, as their structure and tannins perfectly complement the bitterness of the chocolate. These wines enhance the deeper notes of cacao without overshadowing them, creating a wonderful harmony.
Milk chocolate and young wines
Milk chocolate, milder and sweeter due to its lower cacao content, requires lighter wines that won’t overpower its delicacy. In this case, young fruity wines or lightly aged wines are perfect. These wines, with their fresh, fruity notes, complement the sweetness of milk chocolate without eclipsing its flavours.
White chocolate and white wines
White chocolate is in a special category due to its creaminess and high sugar content. Here, the best recommendation is to pair it with a fresh white wine that enhances its sweetness and texture. The Chardonnay grape is ideal for this pairing, as its acidity and smoothness balance the creaminess of white chocolate, creating a soft and velvety experience.
A toast to chocolate: why September 13th?
International Chocolate Day is celebrated on September 13th, a date that pays tribute to two important figures related to the world of cacao, both born on September 13th: Roald Dahl, author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Milton S. Hershey, founder of the famous Hershey’s chocolate brand. Dahl, through his novel, took us into a fantastic world where chocolate is the star, while Hershey revolutionised the chocolate industry in the United States.
With these recommendations, you’ll be able to enjoy the perfect pairing to celebrate this delicious day. Remember, the key is finding the right balance so that the wine and chocolate complement each other, enhancing their flavours.
And if you’re left wanting more, here’s a recipe to enjoy a chocolate and meringue tart with DOCa Rioja reds.
