How do you pair chocolates with alcohol/drinks?
Chocolates, with their diverse range of flavours and textures are an indulgent experience. Nevertheless, these experiences can be elevated by pairing chocolates with an array of foods and / or drinks.
Chocolate pairings are an art and a science. Numerous connoisseurs, chefs, chocolate makers and other professionals work tirelessly to master this art and science. Perhaps we’ll explore that topic too. But to enable you to experience some of these phenomenal pairings, we have put together a list that we can vouch for.
Wine and Chocolates
Chocolate and wine pairings are a classic. The ingredients of both are capable of enhancing each other's flavour profiles leading to an elevated experience. For instance, dark chocolates with higher cocoa content pair really well with wines that are robust such as a Zinfandel or a Cabernet Sauvignon. If you prefer lighter or fruity red wines like a Pinot Noir or Merlot, then you can pair them with milk chocolates that are sweeter and creamier. And if you’re a white chocolate lover, consider pairing it with a prosecco or a moscato.
Coffee and Chocolates
Just like how robust wines go well with dark chocolates. A robust cup of black coffee goes really well with dark chocolates with higher cocoa content. The intensity of the chocolate pairs well with the bitterness of coffee, allowing you to create a varied, but elevated experience.
Similarly, the milk chocolates pair well with coffees that have milk. Try pairing your milk chocolates with lattes or cappuccinos and notice how it enhances the sweetness of the chocolate. And if you are someone who enjoys flavoured coffee, then attempt a painting with white chocolate. For instance, try a hazelnut coffee with plain white chocolate.
Tea and Chocolates
If you’re an Indian who loves a ‘kadak’ masala chai, then try pairing your chai with flavoured dark chocolates or perhaps a dark milk chocolate. The ingredients of the chocolate will enhance the flavour of spices in your masala chai.
If you’re someone who enjoys black teas or fruity teas, then you may find your companion amongst the milk chocolates. And if you’re into lighter teas akin to white tea, then maybe pair it with a white chocolate. Attempt to create a delightful pairing that complements the flavour of white chocolate with the lighter notes of tea.
Whiskey and Chocolates
Pairing whiskey and chocolates can be tricky, but rewarding. It may require a slightly better understanding of flavour profiles to find the right match for you. However, here are a few suggestions that can help you get started.
For all the smoky, peaty scotch whiskeys or single malts, consider dark chocolates that are paired with nuts, dried fruits or salt. If you’re a person who prefers milk chocolates, then you may find bourbons or smooth Irish whiskeys to be your ideal pairing. And if you drink whiskeys with slightly spicy notes, like a rye whiskey, then pair it with dark chocolates that are flavoured with spices like cinnamon, ginger or perhaps even nuts.
There is no right or wrong
Chocolate pairings are a matter of personal preference. It may take a little bit of trial and error to find what pairing works for you, but when you do, you may never want to let it go. Because doing so will not only help you find the right companion for your drink or your chocolate, it will also elevate your experience of pure indulgence.
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