Pairing wine with food can sound like something only an expert sommelier should attempt, but it doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few simple steps, you can find combinations that bring out the best in both the dish and the wine.

A Simple Guide to Pairing

Match the weight
Light dishes go best with lighter wines, while richer or heavier foods need wines with more body. Think grilled fish with Sauvignon Blanc, or roast lamb with Cabernet Sauvignon.

Echo the flavours
If your dish is citrusy or herbal, a wine with similar bright or herbal notes will complement it beautifully.

Try contrasts
Sometimes opposites work wonders. A crisp, slightly sweet Riesling can soften the heat of spicy food, while sparkling wine cuts through salty snacks or fried dishes.

Mind the texture
Delicate foods like sushi or fresh salads are enhanced by wines with finesse, while robust meats need tannins and structure to stand up to them.

Rely on the classics, but experiment too
Red wine with steak, white wine with fish, sparkling wine with oysters—these matches are timeless for a reason. Still, don’t be afraid to explore and discover new favourites.

Explore 100+ Pairings

If you’d like a little help, we’ve created something special. On our website, you can explore more than 100 dishes, each with a carefully chosen wine suggestion. Whether you’re planning seafood, barbecue, cheese, or dessert, you’ll find a ready-made match waiting for you.

Discover our Food & Wine Pairing guide