Pairing Chocolate and Riesling
Originating from Rhine
Riesling is a classic white wine variety, well known for its light body and high acidity. Classic Riesling aromas and flavors include intense notes of peach, apricot and citrus in addition to white floral notes. Often described as a petrol or marmalade note, its character is presented in sweet, off dry, and bone dry styles alike. Riesling is almost never aged in oak barrels.
Rieslings are quite versatile and pair well with many foods including game fowl, Asian, Indian, and Mexican cuisine, as the acidity does a lot to help break down the heat. Sweeter styles of Riesling, especially late-harvest or Spätlese Rieslings from the Alsace region of France, pair beautifully with apple and fruit desserts, crème brûlée, Thai food and bread pudding. Riesling tends to pair best with light dark chocolate as well as milk chocolate, especially dark-milk chocolates. With a natural high acidity, you just as well could pair with spicy chocolate blends.
Shop our suggested selections below, with a four-piece pre-made selection, as well as a "build your own tasting flight" option to host your own chocolate and wine pairing. Please keep in mind, all pairings are subjective person-to-person, and these are mere suggestions to help get you started to find your favorite pairings. We also have posted a wine aroma wheel so your guests can use it as a guideline to discuss what flavor notes/aromas they are noticing with each pairing. Want to share your initial thoughts or your favorite pairings? Let us know here!
Download WWC's Wine & Chocolate pairing notes template for hosting your own tasting party
Build-Your-Own Riesling & Chocolate Pairing Selection
Mix-and-Match our chocolate bar suggestions to build your own pairing flight.