5 Wine Pairings with Chocolate for a Romantic Valentine's Date

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in two of life’s greatest pleasures: wine and chocolate. During our Bordeaux wine tasting experience, we’re frequently asked about the best pairings for wine and chocolate. The right wine enhances the chocolate’s flavors, creating an exquisite tasting experience. Whether you're planning a cozy evening at home or a wine tour through Bordeaux, here are five perfect wine and chocolate pairings to try.

1. Dark Chocolate & Bordeaux Wines (Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon)

   Dark chocolate, with its bold and slightly bitter profile, pairs wonderfully with full-bodied wines like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Bordeaux’s Left Bank wines, rich in Cabernet Sauvignon, provide structured tannins that complement the intensity of dark chocolate. When touring Bordeaux, a stop at Médoc or Pauillac will introduce you to wines that pair beautifully with a piece of high-quality dark chocolate.

2. Milk Chocolate & Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Rosé

   Milk chocolate is sweeter and creamier, making it an ideal match for softer, fruitier wines. Pinot Noir, with its red berry notes, or a Merlot from Saint-Émilion, balances milk chocolate’s richness without overpowering it. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp Rosé from Provence or Bordeaux adds a refreshing contrast. When visiting Saint-Émilion, consider a glass of smooth Merlot alongside a piece of creamy milk chocolate.



3. White Chocolate & Sweet Riesling, Rosé

   White chocolate, with its buttery and vanilla-like sweetness, pairs best with aromatic and slightly sweet wines like a Bordeaux Sauternes or a German Riesling. The delicate floral and citrus notes of these wines prevent the chocolate from becoming cloying. While enjoying Bordeaux wine tasting experiences, make sure to taste a Sauternes – it’s a match made in heaven with white chocolate.

4. Hazelnut Chocolate & Gamay

   Nutty chocolates, such as hazelnut pralines, need a light-bodied wine with bright acidity to highlight their earthy, roasted flavors. Gamay, especially from Beaujolais, is an excellent choice. Its lively fruitiness complements the nuttiness, creating a balanced and enjoyable pairing. A side trip from Bordeaux to Beaujolais could introduce you to some fantastic Gamay wines for this pairing.

5. Chocolate Truffles & Pinot Noir

   Rich, velvety chocolate truffles need a wine that mirrors their elegance. Pinot Noir, with its smooth tannins and notes of cherries and spices, enhances the lusciousness of chocolate truffles. A Burgundy Pinot Noir or a lighter Bordeaux red will work beautifully. If you're in Bordeaux, a tasting at a boutique winery can offer the perfect Pinot Noir for this indulgence.

Bonus: Champagne & Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

For an extra touch of romance, pair chocolate-covered strawberries with Champagne. The bubbles and acidity of Champagne cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the fruit’s natural sweetness and the chocolate’s richness. When in Bordeaux, try a Crémant de Bordeaux for a local sparkling alternative to Champagne.

Bordeaux Wine Tasting Experience with Chocolate

If you're passionate about wine and chocolate, consider booking a Bordeaux wine tasting experience to try these pairings firsthand. From the historic cellars of Saint-Émilion to the prestigious châteaux of Médoc, Bordeaux offers a world-class wine experience that pairs perfectly with chocolate indulgence. Each of our Bordeaux wine tasting experiences is fully customizable, so if you're interested in other unique combinations (for instance, a wine and pastry pairing experience), we'd be delighted to tailor the experience to your preferences.

Whether you're celebrating Valentine’s Day or simply treating yourself, these wine and chocolate pairings are guaranteed to elevate your tasting experience. Santé!