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How to pair red wine with chocolate

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Gourmandize
The pairings that work 3/4

The pairings that work

The key to pairing red wine is to play up the bitterness of the chocolate, which will flatter the wine and soften it on your palate.

You can also try to pair red wine with milk chocolate -- the sweetness of the milk chocolate will coat the tannins, giving it a rounder, fuller taste.

Cabernet Sauvignon and dark chocolate

The finesse of a bitter dark chocolate (50-70% cacao) can definitely stand up to the structure and strength of a Bordeaux. You can also experiment with an Australian Cabernet Sauvignon such as Coonawarra, known for its notes of fresh mint and eucalyptus, paired with a dark mint chocolate.  

Merlot and milk chocolate

An old, slightly oaky Merlot is milk chocolate's best friend. This grape variety is known for its undertones of chocolate and dried fruit, and if aged in oak it can boast an almost caramel flavor, making it the perfect match for milk chocolate. 

Syrah and Bitter chocolate

The spicy, peppery taste of Syrah, along with its strong body, means it pairs exceptionally well with bitter chocolate, especially ones that are above 70% cacao. 


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Chef Tips and Tricks

VIDEO: Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

These salted caramel thumbprint cookies are easy to make and super delicious!

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/4 cup / 50g of softened butter
  • 1 egg (divide the yolk and white)
  • 1/4 cup / 50g of sugar
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 cup / 150g of flour
  • 1 cup / 100g of chopped nuts
  • Salted caramel
  • Melted dark chocolate

METHOD:

  1. In a bowl, mix together the butter, egg yolk, sugar, and salt.

  2. Add the flour and mix. Roll into a ball.

  3. Chill for 30 minutes.

  4. Remove from refrigerator. Divide the dough and roll into 1-inch balls.

  5. Dip each ball in egg yolk, and then roll in chopped nuts.

  6. Place on baking sheet (lined with parchment paper), and press your thumb into the center.

  7. Bake at 340°F/170°C for 12 minutes, or until golden.

  8. Remove from oven and let cool.

  9. Pour the salted caramel into the center groove,and drizzle with dark chocolate.

  10. Enjoy!