There is a lot to consider when putting together a drinks platter; not only the choice of snacks, but also the wine you serve with it can make a big difference. After all, you want your guests to enjoy a harmonious whole, where flavours complement and enhance each other. In this blog post, we will go on a journey of discovery together to find the best wines that you can pair with your drinks platter. Whether you choose cheese, charcuterie or a selection of dips, we will help you find the perfect wine that will take your drinks experience to the next level. Let's explore the world of wines together and discover the ideal combinations.
The Basics of a Snack Board
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack board is a stylish and informal way to serve various snacks, ideal for social gatherings or a cozy evening at home. The concept is simple: a wooden or bamboo board filled with a variety of delicacies that together offer a tasty experience. This makes it a perfect choice for drinks, parties or even as a starter for a dinner.
Types of Snacks on a Snack Board
The composition of a snack board can vary greatly, depending on personal preferences and the season. Below are some popular categories of snacks that you will often find on a snack board:
1. Cheeses
Cheeses are an essential part of any snack platter. Here are some recommended types:
- Brie de Meaux: A creamy French cheese with a soft rind, perfect to pair with a fruity white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
- Gorgonzola: A strong blue cheese that goes well with a full-bodied red wine such as a Chianti.
- Old Mature Cheese: A hard cheese with a rich flavour that goes well with a strong rosé, such as a Provence rosé.
2. Charcuterie
Different types of cold cuts add a savory note to the platter. Consider the following options:
- Prosciutto di Parma: Thin slices of this Italian ham are a delicacy and go well with a Pinot Grigio.
- Chorizo: This spicy Spanish meat is ideal for those who like a bit of spice. It goes well with a Rioja.
- Salami: Contains a range of flavors from mild to spicy and pairs well with a fruity Merlot.
3. Olives and Sun-dried Tomatoes
Olives are not only a beautiful addition to the presentation, but also a tasty addition. Choose:
- Kalamata Olives: These Greek olives are dark purple and have a strong flavor. They go well with a full, powerful red wine.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These flavorful tomatoes add a savory and sweet taste to the platter and pair well with an Italian Prosecco.
4. Dips and Sandwiches
Dips are a great way to enhance the flavors on the board. Here are some suggestions:
- Hummus: A creamy chickpea puree that goes well with vegetables and pita bread. It can be accompanied by a crisp Chardonnay.
- Tzatziki: A refreshing yoghurt sauce with cucumber and garlic, perfect with olives and a nice addition to a Sauvignon Blanc.
- Pesto: This basil mixture is delicious spreadable on bread and goes well with light red wines such as a Beaujolais.
Influence of the Snack Board on Wine Choice
The choice of snacks on the snack board has a direct influence on the selection of wines. Here are some tips to choose the right wine for your snack board:
| Snack | Featured Wine |
|---|---|
| Brie de Meaux | Sauvignon Blanc |
| Gorgonzola | Chianti |
| Prosciutto di Parma | Pinot Grigio |
| Chorizo | Rioja |
| Kalamata Olives | Full Red Wine |
| Hummus | Chardonnay |
| Tzatziki | Sauvignon Blanc |
By considering the flavors and textures of the snacks, you can create a harmonious combination that your guests will surely appreciate. Each snack tells a story and the matching wine enhances this experience, making the snack platter not just a meal, but a culinary experience.
Wine and cheese: an ideal combination
Pairing wine and cheese is a timeless classic that delights the senses and elevates the taste experience. In this section, we explore which wines pair best with different types of cheese, and offer tips for tasting these delicious duos.
Soft cheeses: the perfect match with white wines
Soft cheeses like brie and camembert are creamy and have a subtle flavor. These cheeses go well with fresh, fruity white wines. Here are some recommendations:
- Brie: Combine with a Chardonnay from Burgundy, such as Louis Jadot ChardonnayThe buttery notes of the wine complement the creaminess of the cheese perfectly.
- Camembert: A Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, such as Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, offers a refreshing acidity that balances the rich flavor of Camembert.
Tasting tips for soft cheeses
- Allow the cheeses to come to room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to develop better.
- Take a sip of wine and a bite of cheese at the same time for the best taste experience.
Hard cheeses: the power of red wines
Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan and aged Gouda, have a strong and complex flavor. These cheeses pair well with full-bodied red wines. Consider the following pairings:
- Parmesan: A Chianti Classico, such as Castello di Ama Chianti Classico, enhances the salty and nutty flavors of the cheese.
- Aged Gouda: Try a Zinfandel, such as Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel, which with its fruitiness and spice nicely complements the caramel-like notes of the cheese.
Tasting tips for hard cheeses
- Cut the cheese into small pieces and vary the order of tasting to discover the different flavors of the wine and cheese.
- Take a small sip of wine after each bite of cheese to properly compare the flavors.
Spicy Cheeses: The Challenge of Sweet and Fortified Wines
Spicy cheeses, such as blue cheese, have a powerful flavor that requires a unique wine choice. Sweet and fortified wines are often the best choice here:
- Blue cheese: Combine with a Port, such as Taylor's Vintage PortThe sweetness of the wine softens the salty and spicy flavors of the cheese.
- Roquefort: A Sauternes, such as Château d'Yquem, offers a luxurious combination due to the sweetness and complexity of the wine that complements the sharp flavors of the cheese.
Tasting tips for spicy cheeses
- Try the cheese without wine first to experience the pure taste and then compare it with the wine.
- Experiment with different sweet-wine combinations for a surprising taste explosion.
Summary table of wine and cheese pairings
| Cheese type | Featured Wine | Brand/Product |
|---|---|---|
| Soft cheese (Brie) | Chardonnay | Louis Jadot Chardonnay |
| Soft cheese (Camembert) | Sauvignon Blanc | Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc |
| Hard cheese (Parmesan) | Chianti Classico | Castello di Ama Chianti Classico |
| Hard cheese (Aged Gouda) | Zinfandel | Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel |
| Spicy cheese (Blue mold) | Port | Taylor's Vintage Port |
| Spicy cheese (Roquefort) | Sauternes | Château d'Yquem |
By following these guidelines and experimenting with different pairings, you can enjoy an unforgettable wine and cheese experience that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Wines for Meats and Charcuterie
When creating the perfect charcuterie board, choosing the right wine is essential. The combination of flavors between meats and wines can significantly enhance the dining experience. In this section, we will discuss different types of wines that pair well with various meats and charcuterie.
Red Wines for Salami and Ham
Red wines are often the best choice for savory meats like salami and ham. The rich flavors of these meats require a wine that can match the intensity. Here are some recommendations:
1. Chianti Classico
- Producer: Castle of Ama
- Features: A medium-bodied wine with notes of cherries and spices. The high acidity makes it an excellent match for salami.
2. Barbera d'Alba
- Producer: Vietti
- Features: This wine has a fruity taste with a light spiciness. It goes perfectly with both dry and peppered ham.
3. Rioja Crianza
- Producer: Bodegas LAN
- Features: With its soft tannins and vanilla notes, this wine offers a nice balance with the saltiness of prosciutto.
Light Wines for Delicate Meats
For more delicate meats such as coppa or smoked turkey, lighter wines are more suitable. These wines have a subtle taste that does not overpower the delicate flavours of the meats.
1. Pinot Grigio
- Producer: Santa Margherita
- Features: A fresh and fruity white wine with a light minerality, perfect for accompanying mild meats.
2. Gamay
- Producer: Jean Foillard
- Features: This light red wine has a lively fruitiness that pairs well with the delicate flavours of smoked chicken or turkey.
3. Chardonnay (raw style)
- Producer: Domaine Ferret
- Features: An unpretentious Chardonnay with subtle wood tones and fresh acids, ideal for combining with raw ham and fine meats.
Table: Wine and Meat Pairings
| Meats | Featured Wine | Producer | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salami | Chianti Classico | Castle of Ama | Cherries, spices, high acidity |
| Peppered Ham | Barbara d'Alba | Vietti | Fruity, light spiciness |
| Prosciutto | Rioja Crianza | Bodegas LAN | Soft, vanilla notes |
| Coppa | Pinot Grigio | Santa Margherita | Fresh, fruity, light minerality |
| Smoked Turkey | Gamay | Jean Foillard | Lively fruitiness |
| Raw Ham | Unprocessed Chardonnay | Domaine Ferret | Subtle wood tones, fresh acids |
Additional Tips for Combinations
- Texture: When choosing wine, also consider the texture of the meats. Fattier meats like bacon can pair well with wines that have a higher acidity, like a Sangiovese.
- Herbs: Meats seasoned with strong spices are better accompanied by wines that also have more intense flavors, such as a Syrah or a Zinfandel.
- Temperature: Serve red wines slightly cooler than room temperature (about 16-18°C) to allow the flavours to develop optimally.
By selecting the right wines to pair with your charcuterie and meats, you can create a harmonious and flavorful experience that your guests are sure to appreciate.
Conclusion: The perfect wine choice for any drinks platter
In this blog post, we’ve discussed the best wines to pair with a snack platter, focusing on the different types of snacks and their matching wines. It’s essential to choose wines that complement the flavors of your selected snacks, such as crisp white wines with light cheeses and fruits, or full-bodied red wines with savory meats.
In addition, it is important to take your personal preference into account when making your choice. Every wine lover has unique tastes and preferences, so do not hesitate to experiment with different combinations. By tasting and varying, you may discover the perfect match for your snack board. Enjoy the process and let your taste buds guide you!
