This step-by-step guide provides insight into which wines go well with a drink. Learn how to create the ideal flavor combinations and take your drinks board to the next level by choosing the right wines. Turn your drinks moment into a true culinary experience with the right wine-food combinations.
Determine the contents of your drinks board
Choose a variety of cheeses, such as brie, goat cheese and aged cheese. Add different types of meats, such as salami, prosciutto and chorizo. Supplement the board with nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, and different fruits, such as grapes and strawberries. Finally, add other snacks, such as olives, hummus and baguette.
Analyze the flavors
Think carefully about the flavor profiles of the different snacks on your snack board. Consider the flavors sweet, salty, sour and bitter. Make sure you take these elements into account when choosing the wine.
- Analyze each bite separately for its flavor profile.
- Match the sweetness of a dish with the wine.
- Choose a wine that goes well with the salty snacks.
- Think about balancing sourness in the dish with the wine.
- Perhaps consider a wine with some bitterness, depending on the appetizers.
Choose the wines
Choose a mix of red, white and rosé wines to match the various flavors on your snack board. Make sure each wine complements the different snacks on your board. Experiment with different types of wines to discover the ideal combinations. Don't forget to take your personal preferences and those of your guests into account for a successful wine-food combination!
Red wine and cheese
Try pairing a soft brie with a fruity red wine, such as a Pinot Noir. A spicy blue cheese goes well with a strong red wine, such as a Malbec or a Shiraz. Experiment with different combinations to discover which flavors go best together!
White wine and fish
- Try pairing fresh and fruity white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with seafood for a refreshing taste.
- Choose a Chardonnay with some wood aging if you have smoked salmon on your platter, this will complement the smoky flavor of the salmon.
- For other fish dishes, try a light and dry white wine such as a Riesling or a dry Muscadet that brings out the delicate flavors of the fish.
Rosé and charcuterie
First of all, choose a dry rosé with a fresh acidity to combine with mild meats such as salami or coppa. Then try a fruity rosé with a slightly sweeter touch to match with pâtés such as liver pate or rillettes. Experiment with different styles and flavors to find the perfect combination for your drinks platter.
Provide balance
- Combine and select different types of wines that offer diversity.
- Make sure that the wines complement both the soft and spicy flavors on your drinks board.
- Consider both red and white wines, as well as a sparkling option for a festive touch.
- Test the combinations of wines and snacks to find the perfect balance for your drinks platter.
Serving temperature and glassware
- Make sure you cool the white wines between 8-12°C and the red wines at room temperature, around 16-18°C.
- For red wines, often use glasses with a large bowl and a wide opening, while for white wines you choose slimmer glasses with a narrower opening.
- For sparkling wines and champagne, flute glasses are ideal to bring out the bubbles.
- Do not forget to rinse the glasses thoroughly with water beforehand to remove any residues or odors.
Presentation and styling
Start by selecting a varied mix of cheeses, meats, fruit and nuts for your snack board. Arrange the items in an attractive way, taking color and texture into account. Add different types of tableware, such as cheese boards and small bowls for dips. Ensure a harmonious presentation of the wines by placing them in a central place on the table and providing them with suitable glasses. If possible, add some decorative elements, such as flowers or candles, to complete the presentation.
Enjoy the combinations
Try and experiment with different wine and appetizer combinations. Discover which flavors suit you best. Mix and match cheeses, meats and wines to find your perfect combination. Get a feel for what works best for your taste buds.
Wine choice for drinks board
Fantastic work! With this guide in hand, you now know exactly which wines go best with a drinks board. Enjoy putting together delicious combinations and make every drink moment a party. Cheers and have fun! 🍷🧀
Supplies
- Various cheeses (e.g. brie, goat cheese, blue cheese)
- Different types of fish (such as smoked salmon, shrimp)
- Assortment of charcuterie (such as salami, chorizo)
- Red wine
- White wine
- Rose
- Glasses for red, white and rosé wine
- Refrigerator or wine cooler
- Drink board(s)
- Cutting board(s)
- Knife(s)
- Decorative accessories (e.g. napkins, small bowls)
Wine-food combinations for drinks boards
- Choose a light, fresh white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio if you mainly have fish, seafood and vegetables on your plate.
- For meats and cheeses on your snack board, it is best to choose a red wine, such as a Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec
- Try to opt for regional combinations, for example a Spanish Rioja with chorizo or an Italian Chianti with Parmesan cheese
- A sparkling wine such as Prosecco or Cava also goes well with a drink and provides a festive touch.
- Remember that personal taste comes first, so experiment and discover which combination of wine and drinks suits you best. Have fun tasting!
Tips for putting together a delicious snack board
- Choose a variety of cheeses: Select different types of cheeses such as brie, goat cheese and aged cheese for a nice mix of flavors
- Add different meats: Think of salami, prosciutto and chorizo to add a savory touch to your snack board
- Mix in some fresh fruit: Add some grapes, apple pieces or figs to add some sweetness and freshness to the board
- Supplement with crackers and nuts: Add some crispy crackers and mixed nuts to complete the snack board. Have fun putting together!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about putting together a snack board
Different types of nuts and dried fruit should not be missing on a snack board, because they provide a varied taste experience. Some popular choices include walnuts, almonds, cashews and pistachios. In addition, dried apricots, dates, figs and cranberries are favorites of many people. By adding this combination of nuts and dried fruit, you create a delicious and balanced snack for drinks. Have fun putting together your drinks board!
A snack board can accommodate various types of cheeses that go well with other flavors and textures. Soft cheeses such as brie and camembert form a good basis, while hard cheeses such as aged cheese and goat cheese provide variety. In addition, a blue-veined cheese such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola can be a spicy addition. It is also advisable to choose cheeses with different types of milk, such as cow, goat and sheep cheese, for a varied taste experience. Combine the cheeses with fruit, nuts and crackers for a balanced snack board.