Every gathering calls for a great wine pairing.

But here’s the truth: there are no hard and fast rules—just one that matters most: Do you like it?

By Genevieve Wolfe, WSET Level 3 Certified, Level 4 Candidate. Wine Director at Vine 32 Wine + Graze Bar

Everyone’s palate is unique, so don’t feel bound by what the magazines say. Instead, explore what you enjoy.

To guide you, let’s break wine down into five key components:
  • Acid – Like the zing of a lemon wedge, felt in the back of your cheeks.
  • Sugar – The sweetness of chocolate hitting the tip of your tongue.
  • Tannin – That drying sensation from black tea or grape skins in your gums.
  • Alcohol – A warming kick felt in the back of your throat.
  • Body – Compare skim milk to whole milk (or eggnog this time of year); it’s the weight in your mouth.

These components interact with food, changing your perception of both the wine and the dish. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
  • Acidic foods make wine seem less acidic.
  • Salty foods soften acidity and tannins in wine.
  • Sweet foods make wine taste drier.
  • Savory foods enhance a wine’s fruity notes.

Now that you’ve got the basics, remember: pairing is personal. Play around and find what works for you!

Hosting Wine Picks

Here’s a lineup to keep everyone happy:
  1. German Riesling (Off-Dry)
     High acid balances sweetness without overwhelming your palate. Perfect for appetizers, salads, and kicking off the festivities.
  2. South African Chenin Blanc
     A fuller-bodied white that avoids the “oaky, buttery Chardonnay” vibe. Think of it as Chardonnay’s cooler, younger cousin. Great with poultry, white meats, or ham.
  3. French Côtes du Rhône
     A blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. Bright fruit, medium tannins, and a hint of spice make it a versatile food wine. Works start to finish—bold enough for rich dishes, fruity enough for lighter fare.
  4. Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon
     Bold, full-bodied, and high in tannins. Ideal for meat lovers, prime rib, and even after-dinner cigars. A sure hit for the California Cab purists in the family.

Final Thought
You can’t please everyone—and that’s okay! Have fun, experiment, and, most importantly, enjoy the magic of wine and food together.

Need help finding the perfect pairing? Come visit us at Vine 32, and let us set you up with the right wine for your next gathering.

Vine 32 Wine & Graze Bar
25 S River Rd Unit 107, Bedford
www.vinethirtytwo.com


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