Perfect pairings

Pairing gets easier when you stop looking for rules.

Richness wants freshness. Sweetness needs care. Roast can echo cocoa. Bubbles are very good at rescuing fried food. Start with what is actually on the plate — or in the glass — and work from there.

Start with what you have

Pick a food or a drink, then see where it leads.

Start with steak, chocolate or cheese — or with the bottle already open. A spirit can lead to something good beside the glass, a mixer or garnish, and a cocktail you can make from it.

Swipe sideways to browse pairing families.

Start with the thing you know. “Steak” is a perfectly good place to begin.

What works

Matches for “Fruit”

132 ideas found. Strongest first.

Exceptional pairing

Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva + Belton Farm Red Fox

Why it works: Mature savoury cheese stands up to Rioja's tannin, oak and fruit.

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Excellent pairing

Beyerskloof Diesel Pinotage + Grilled steak

Why it works: Full body and tannin stand up to grilled beef, while dark fruit complements browned savoury flavours.

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Excellent pairing

PONTE DA BOGA GODELLO + White fish with lemon & herbs

Why it works: Bright acidity, fresh fruit and mineral character suit delicate white fish and herbs.

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Excellent pairing

100x100 MONASTRELL + Grilled steak

Why it works: Full body and tannin stand up to grilled beef, while dark fruit complements browned savoury flavours.

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Excellent pairing

Greywacke Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc + White fish with lemon & herbs

Why it works: Bright acidity, fresh fruit and mineral character suit delicate white fish and herbs.

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Excellent pairing

La Rioja Alta S.A 904 Rioja Gran Reserva + Grilled steak

Why it works: Full body and tannin stand up to grilled beef, while dark fruit complements browned savoury flavours.

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Excellent pairing

ENATE SYRAH-SHIRAZ + Grilled steak

Why it works: Full body and tannin stand up to grilled beef, while dark fruit complements browned savoury flavours.

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Excellent pairing

Springfield Life from Stone Sauvignon Blanc + White fish with lemon & herbs

Why it works: Bright acidity, fresh fruit and mineral character suit delicate white fish and herbs.

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