Halloween is not just for kids! Adults can enjoy the festivities too, and what better way to elevate your Halloween experience than by pairing your favorite Halloween candies with the perfect wines? Whether you’re hosting a Halloween-themed party or simply want to treat yourself to some sweet and spooky indulgence, we’ve got some wickedly good wine and candy pairing suggestions.
- Milk Chocolate and Pinot Noir: The smooth creaminess of milk chocolate, like classic Hershey’s bars or Milky Ways, pairs wonderfully with a light and fruity red wine like Pinot Noir. The wine’s bright fruit notes complement the sweetness of the chocolate, making it a delightful combination that’s sure to please your palate.
- Dark Chocolate and Cabernet Sauvignon: If you prefer the richer and slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate, reach for a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s robust character and tannins beautifully balance the bitterness of the chocolate, creating a harmonious pairing that’s perfect for those who enjoy deeper flavors.
- Caramel-filled Treats and Dessert Wines: Candies filled with luscious caramel, such as caramel apples or caramel-filled chocolates, deserve an equally luxurious wine. Consider pairing them with Tawny Port or Sherry. The sweet and nutty profiles of these dessert wines complement the richness of caramel, creating a match made in candy heaven.
- Peanut Butter Cups and Syrah: The delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate is enhanced when paired with a wine like Syrah. The wine’s fruity and spicy notes beautifully contrast with the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter cups, making for a delightful and unexpected pairing.
- Gummy Bears and Sparkling Wines: For the fruity and chewy gummy bear lovers out there, opt for a crisp and refreshing sparkling wine like Prosecco or Champagne. The effervescence and acidity of the wine cleanse your palate between each bite of gummy goodness, leaving you craving more.
- Sour Candies and Riesling: If sour candies like Sour Patch Kids are your Halloween candy of choice, try balancing their tartness with a slightly off-dry Riesling. The wine’s sweetness will offset the sourness of the candy, resulting in a harmonious pairing that tingles your taste buds.
- Candy Corn and Sauvignon Blanc: Candy corn, with its intense sweetness, pairs well with a crisp and refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s acidity and bright citrus notes provide a counterbalance to the candy’s sugary profile, creating a surprisingly delightful combination.
Halloween is a time for indulgence and fun, and what better way to celebrate than by pairing your favorite candies with complementary wines? Whether you’re savoring the classic flavors of milk chocolate or daring to explore the realm of sour candies, there’s a wine out there waiting to enhance your Halloween candy experience. So, don your costumes, prepare your candy and wine pairings, and have a spooktacular Halloween! Cheers!
