This step-by-step guide provides insight into which wines go well with a snack platter. Learn how to create the ideal flavor combinations and take your snack platter 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 platter
Choose a variety of cheeses, such as brie, goat cheese, and aged cheese. Add different types of cold cuts, such as salami, prosciutto, and chorizo. Fill the board with nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, and different types of fruit, such as grapes and strawberries. Finally, add other snacks, such as olives, hummus, and baguettes.
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 the acidity in the dish with the wine.
- Perhaps consider a wine with some bitterness, depending on the snacks.
Choose the wines
Choose a mix of red, white and rosé wines to match the different flavours on your snack platter. Make sure each wine complements the different snacks on your platter. Experiment with different types of wines to discover the ideal combinations. Don't forget to take into account your personal preferences and those of your guests for a successful wine-food combination!
Red wine and cheese
Try pairing a soft brie with a fruity red wine, like a Pinot Noir. A tangy blue cheese pairs well with a bold red wine, like a Malbec or a Shiraz. Experiment with different combinations to see which flavors work best together!
White wine and fish
- Try pairing crisp, fruity white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with seafood for a refreshing taste.
- If you have smoked salmon on your drinks platter, choose a Chardonnay with some wood aging, this will complement the smoky flavor of the salmon.
- For other fish dishes, try a light, dry white wine such as a Riesling or a dry Muscadet which will bring out the delicate flavors of the fish.
Rosé and charcuterie
First, choose a dry rosé with a fresh acidity to pair with mild meats like salami or coppa. Then try a fruity rosé with a sweeter touch to match with pates like liver pate or rillettes. Experiment with different styles and flavors to find the perfect combination for your snack platter.
Provide balance
- Combine and select different types of wines that offer diversity.
- Make sure the wines complement both the soft and spicy flavors on your drinks platter.
- Think of both red and white wines, as well as possibly 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 to chill 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 should choose slimmer glasses with a narrower opening.
- For sparkling wines and champagne, flute glasses are ideal to allow the bubbles to really come into their own.
- Don't forget to rinse the glasses thoroughly with water beforehand to remove any residue or odors.
Presentation and styling
Start by selecting a varied mix of cheeses, meats, fruits and nuts for your snack platter. Arrange the items in an attractive way, taking into account colour and texture. 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 matching 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 snack board 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 selection for drinks platter
Great job! With this guide in hand, you now know exactly which wines go best with a snack platter. Enjoy creating delicious combinations and turn every snack moment into a party. Cheers and have fun! 🍷🧀
Supplies
Wine and food combinations for drinks platters
Tips for putting together a delicious drinks platter
- 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 salami, prosciutto and chorizo to add a savory touch to your drinks platter
- Mix in some fresh fruit: Add some grapes, apple pieces or figs to add some sweetness and freshness to the plank
- Top with crackers and nuts: Add some crunchy crackers and mixed nuts to complete the snack board. Have fun putting it together!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about composing a drinks platter
A snack platter should not be without different types of nuts and dried fruit, because they provide a varied taste experience. Some popular choices are walnuts, almonds, cashew nuts and pistachios. In addition, dried apricots, dates, figs and cranberries are a favorite 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 snack platter!
A snack platter includes various types of cheese that go well with other flavours and textures. Soft cheeses such as brie and camembert form a good base, while hard cheeses such as old cheese and goat cheese provide variation. 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's, goat's and sheep's cheese, for a varied taste experience. Combine the cheeses with fruit, nuts and crackers for a balanced snack platter.
