Perfect Pairing: Wine and Cherry Blossom Chocolates

Pairing wine and chocolate is a true art. Done well, the combination transforms a simple tasting into a memorable moment. Done poorly, the two cancel each other out. Here's how to do it, especially with fruit-filled chocolates like the famous Cherry Blossom.

The Basic Principle

The most useful rule: the wine must always be at least as sweet as the chocolate. A dry wine served with sweet chocolate will taste acidic and metallic. This is the most common mistake.

Four Pairings That Work

Pinot Noir

An excellent choice for cherry chocolates. This light red, with notes of cherry and red berries, echoes the fruity flavors of the chocolate. Its smoothness balances the cocoa well without overpowering it.

Moscato

For a sweeter approach. This sweet white, with floral and fruity aromas, pairs very well with fruit fillings. Its lightness brings out the nuances of the chocolate.

Sparkling Wine

Champagne or Prosecco: the bubbles and freshness provide a sharp contrast to the richness of the chocolate and cleanse the palate between bites. Choose a demi-sec rather than a brut.

Shiraz

For lovers of full-bodied wines. Its spicy notes create a nice contrast with dark chocolate. The intensity of Shiraz pairs well with the depth of cocoa.

Tasting Tips

• Temperature — serve reds slightly chilled, whites and sparkling wines well chilled
• Order — first taste the chocolate alone, then take a sip of wine and let the aromas mingle
• Progression — go from lightest to most intense, otherwise everything that follows will seem bland

Where to Find Fine Chocolates in Quebec?

At Jujubes et Chocolats, we maintain a beautiful selection of imported chocolates that lend themselves well to this type of tasting: Milka cherry cream, chocolate-covered freeze-dried strawberries, Dubai pistachio chocolate.

We are located at Galeries Saint-Hyacinthe (entrance no. 2). Delivery anywhere in Canada — free for orders over $55 — and free in-store pickup, with no minimum purchase.

Alcohol consumption is reserved for persons 18 years and older.