Decadent wine and chocolate pairings for every occasion

Join these indulgent treats together and find your two familiar favourites transformed

When it comes to timeless gastronomic pairings, chocolate and wine are a classic combination that evokes the very essence of culinary indulgence. Whether you’re purchasing chocolates for a dinner party, treating a loved one to a chocolate birthday gift, or indulging at home with a partner, a well-paired bottle of wine can transform any occasion into something truly special.

As an award-winning chocolatier with a reputation for daring and delightful flavour combinations, we certainly know a thing or two about pairing these fond favourites. From crisp white wines that complement the creamy texture of milk chocolate to light, fruity reds that bring out the complexity of high-cacao darks, we’ve curated a collection of pairings that will turn any moment into a celebration of taste.

What to look for when pairing wine with chocolate

Fortunately, you don’t need to be a chocolate connoisseur or a seasoned sommelier to understand the art of pairing chocolate and wine.

As you may have already guessed, different wines complement different chocolates. And when trying to decipher which of these chocolate and wine pairings work well together, there are two key concepts to keep in mind.

The first is balancing sweetness with dryness and acidity. Generally speaking, your choice of wine should be slightly sweeter than your chocolate in order to avoid that all-too-common bitter aftertaste. Ever tried pairing a dry cabernet sauvignon with a milk chocolate bar, only to find it less than satisfying? By choosing a wine with a touch more sweetness, you ensure the chocolate’s richness shines without being overpowered.

The second thing to consider is tannins. These natural compounds, found in wine, dark chocolate, and even coffee, contribute a subtle bitterness and astringent sensation in the mouth.

When pairing chocolate and wine, instead of combining two high-tannin options — like very dark chocolate with a full-bodied red — opt for a contrasting combination, such as milk chocolate with a tannic red, or dark chocolate with a fruit-forward, low-tannin wine. This will ensure a harmonious experience where neither the chocolate nor the wine overpowers the other.

Curious about the differences between the four most popular types of wine? Check out our handy wine guide to uncover everything you need to know.

Which chocolates go best with red wine?

Nothing says sophistication quite like a soothing glass of red and a box of delectable dark chocolate. Whether for a date night or a dinner party, it’s a classic combination that never fails to impress.

If you’re looking to pair a red wine with rich dark chocolate, try our Dark Chocolate Truffles Selector with a smooth pinot noir. The wine’s bright cherry and raspberry notes will harmonise with the dark chocolate’s subtle fruitiness, while its earthy undertones will echo the cacao’s natural complexity. Thanks to pinot noir’s lower tannin levels, it won’t clash with the dark chocolate’s inherent bitterness, resulting in a beautifully balanced pairing that showcases the best of both worlds.

For full-bodied reds, such as merlot and zinfandel, a mellower dark chocolate offers a delightful counterpoint to the wine’s rich taste. Looking for the perfect date night gift for a praline enthusiast? Pair your full-bodied red with our silky smooth Gianduja Bombe Selectors. Their creamy praline centre provides a touch of sweetness that will temper the wine’s tannins, while the 70% dark chocolate shell adds depth and complexity. It’s a truly indulgent duo that’s sure to impress any praline lover.

White wine and chocolate pairings

Think white wine is only for seafood and cheese? Think again! When paired thoughtfully, white wine can elevate the flavours of milk and white chocolate, creating a truly unforgettable tasting experience.

While a white wine such as chardonnay possesses a more mellow, vanilla-like flavour, a citrus-based sauvignon blanc naturally tastes crisp and fruity. For the former, a treat from our range of white chocolate or caramel chocolate makes for the perfect mate. From simple white chocolate truffles to Salted Caramel Selectors, you’re sure to find a combination that delights your senses.

If you’re opting for a vibrant sauvignon, citrus chocolates, such as our Chocolate Orange Pot Selector, match perfectly. The 50% milk chocolate, bitter orange, and creamy dulce de leche will dance playfully with the wine’s zesty acidity, creating a refreshing and invigorating taste combination — the ideal gift for those who prefer a fruitier cacao treat.

How to pair rosé wine and chocolate

Hoping to sweep a special someone off their feet? A delicate rosé paired with a selection of smooth, sumptuous chocolates is sure to make their heart melt.

Rosé wines often possess subtle notes of strawberry and raspberry, making them the perfect match for a fruity white or milk chocolate. However, natural ingredients are key. By opting for high quality chocolate crafted with natural ingredients, you’ll ensure your chocolate and rosé pairing isn’t overpowered by excess sugar or artificial flavourings.

Why not take date night to the next level with our Exuberantly Fruity Sleekster? Bursting with zesty fruit flavours like Passion Fruit, Raspberry Smoothie, and tangy Lemon Cheesecake, each bite offers a delightful counterpoint to the rosé’s delicate sweetness and acidity.

If your partner prefers a higher cacao chocolate, go for a drier rosé paired with our Serious Dark Fix Sleekster. The rich, intense flavours of the dark chocolate will balance beautifully with the drier notes of the rosé, resulting in a satisfying and well-rounded treat.

The best chocolate to enjoy with sparkling wine

Fancy pairing your chocolate with some fizz? Sparkling wine is the ideal gift for anniversaries, birthdays, or any time you want to add a touch of sparkle. Add in some seriously good chocolate, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable event…

Generally speaking, the drier and lighter your choice of bubbles, the better it will taste with your chosen chocolate. Our Classic Prosecco, from the foothills of the Italian Dolomites, is the perfect fit for any chocolate pairing. Crisp, refreshing and subtly fruity, it’s sure to leave you in celebratory spirits.

Both white and milk chocolates are a great match for sparkling wine since the fizz will accentuate their creamy and sweet undertones. But if you’re not sure what to pick, our delectable Milk to Caramel H-Box offers a particularly charming choice. The underlying fruity notes of our ethically sourced cacao will be heightened by the fruity notes of a sparkling wine, resulting in a tantalising duo that’s simply meant to be.

Still can’t settle on a sparkling wine pairing? Find a chocolate that can do both. Within our Champagne lifestyle collection, you’ll discover a curated selection of lavish champagne chocolate truffles that are every bit as decadent as you’d expect. 

Buying a gift for her? Imagine the delight on her face when she unwraps a rose gold tin, revealing a collection of our exquisite blush-coloured Pink Champagne Truffles. Their delicate pink hue hints at the sumptuous experience within — each truffle, generously coated in velvety milk chocolate, promising a symphony of flavours. It’s a gift that speaks volumes, whispering of celebrations, special moments, and a touch of everyday luxury — just for her.

Festive wine and chocolate pairings

While wine and chocolate can be enjoyed at any time of year, there’s something truly magical about indulging in this classic combination at Christmas.

Imagine warming up by the fire after a long winter’s day, savouring a decadent chocolate from your Advent calendar alongside a glass of your favourite red. Our Truffles for Two Calendar, filled with comforting flavours like Salted Caramel Cream, Gingerbread Praline, and Madagascan Vanilla, offers the perfect opportunity to create these heartwarming moments.

Craving a more traditional Christmas treat? Our Winter Puddings Sleekster is the answer. Brimming with classic festive flavours and reimagined winter desserts, these dinky dessert chocolates pair beautifully with a muscat or vintage port. Pass around the dinner table or tuck in while watching a film for a moment of pure merriment that captures the spirit of the season.

Wine and chocolate gifts from Hotel Chocolat

At Hotel Chocolat, we believe that a celebratory tipple coupled with a little chocolate makes for an extra special gift. Whether it’s a robust red, a crisp white, or a delicate rosé, complementing it with chocolate adds the perfect finishing touch.

Now that you’re armed with your newfound pairing expertise, why not explore our full collection? Check out our hand-picked chocolate boxes for even more enchanting treats to pair with your wine or alcohol gifts.

By Nicky Green