It’s National Wine Day – but honestly, we think any evening can turn into a bit of a wine and chocolate moment. Especially if you’re hosting.
You’ve got the dinner sorted. The wine’s chilling or breathing or decanted (or, let’s be real, just on the table). You’ve even remembered to light a candle. Now what?
If you’re anything like us at Montezuma’s, you’ll be thinking: what chocolate’s going to work here? Not just in a “hand it round and hope for the best” way, but something that feels a bit more… thought about. That final little flourish that ties the night together.
So, we’ve done the hard part (read: tasted a lot of chocolate and wine) and pulled together our no-fuss guide to pairings that actually work. Whether you’re laying the table for a roast or a risotto, there’s a chocolate match for your wine that’s simple, satisfying, and quietly impressive.
Something spicy to start?
If you’ve gone in with Thai curry, a bit of chilli oil, or anything with heat, a fruity white wine is your friend. Slightly off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer cuts through the spice and calms things down. At the end of the night, bring out our 74% Dark Chocolate or Black Forest Bar. The cherry in the Black Forest makes everything feel a bit fancier and somehow lighter.
Post-dinner idea: Plate it with a few slices of pear and some nuts if you want to look like you’ve planned it (even if you haven’t).
Creamy mains like chicken or pasta?
Oaked Chardonnay or a rich Viognier works beautifully, and so does our Smooth Operator Milk Chocolate. That creamy smooth finish echoes the wine’s buttery vibe. It’s a soft landing after something scrumptious.
Dinner party win: This pairing makes people go quiet. In a good way.
For dessert wines...
Who needs dessert when you've got a glass of wine to enjoy? But, if you're in the mood for something a little extra, pair it with our Space Hopper Bar. The zesty orange notes in the milk chocolate complement the sweet, rich flavours of a Sauternes or Muscat, making it the perfect way to end your meal on a high note.
Smoky, peppery wines like Shiraz or Malbec?
That’s when our Chilli Bonkers Bar shines. The chilli adds a low, slow heat that mirrors those smoky notes in the wine. It’s a bold combo, but if you’ve done a BBQ or roast aubergine dish, this will round things off with a bit of a wow.
Poured a chilled rosé?
Especially if it’s sparkling, pair it with our Neapolitan Truffles. They’ve got layers of strawberry, white and milk chocolate, so they play really nicely with pink wines. Great after a Mediterranean-style spread or summer lunch.
Good to know: They look great in a little bowl with raspberries. That’s your Instagram moment sorted.
Going for espresso martinis or nightcaps?
Our Happiccino Bar brings coffee and cocoa nibs to the party, and they’re spot on with after-dinner drinks. Espresso martinis, black coffee, or even a Syrah will pick up the flavours and add some real depth to the final course (even if you forgot to make a final course).
Host hack: Stick them on a tray with a few coffee beans and pretend it was always the plan.
Finishing strong with Port or Sherry?
That’s the moment for Splotch, our butterscotch milk chocolate. The sweetness in both plays off each other and turns everything into a sort of improvised pudding. No spoon required.
One more thing: You can chop it into chunks and put it out with a cheeseboard. Unexpected. Delish.
One last thought...
There’s no right way to do this. If it tastes good to you, it works. These pairings are here to give you a head start, but we’re big fans of the “try it and see” approach. Because really, you’re already doing it right if there’s wine and chocolate on the table.
Need to stock up?
Shop the collection here and tag us @montezumaschocs when you find your perfect match.
Because wine not?
