Pairing wine with fruit is an art that can elevate both the wine’s and the fruit’s flavors to new heights. Acidity, sweetness, and tannins all play a role in how these combinations are experienced.
Here, we explore some of the best fruits to enjoy with a glass of wine—and which wines complement them best.
1. Strawberries – A Classic Pairing
Strawberries are both sweet and slightly tart, making them a perfect match for sparkling wine. Champagne, Prosecco, or Crémant balance the fruit’s natural acidity and create a fresh and elegant combination. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir also works well, especially if the strawberries are served with dark chocolate.
Best wine pairings:
- Champagne
- Prosecco
- Pinot Noir
2. Figs – Luxurious and Rich
Figs have a rich sweetness and soft texture, making them ideal for pairing with full-bodied wines. A glass of Amarone or a spicy Zinfandel enhances the caramelized notes in the fruit. If you prefer white wine, an aged Chardonnay with its buttery and nutty notes creates a wonderful taste experience.
Best wine pairings:
- Amarone
- Zinfandel
- Aged Chardonnay
3. Apples – Crisp Acidity and Sweetness
Apples vary in taste depending on the variety, but they generally work well with wines that have good acidity. A glass of Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright acidity of green apples, while a light red wine like Beaujolais pairs nicely with sweeter apple varieties.
Best wine pairings:
- Riesling
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Beaujolais
4. Peaches – Soft and Juicy
The juicy sweetness of peaches pairs beautifully with aromatic white wines. A Viognier or Gewürztraminer highlights the fruit’s floral notes and creates a refreshing and sensual combination. For a more indulgent pairing, try a dessert wine like Sauternes.
Best wine pairings:
- Viognier
- Gewürztraminer
- Sauternes
5. Grapes – A Natural Companion
It may seem obvious, but grapes and wine are a natural match. Red grapes, often found on cheese platters, go well with full-bodied reds like Merlot or Syrah. Green grapes, which are usually sweeter and more acidic, pair better with a crisp white wine like Albariño or a light Moscato d’Asti.
Best wine pairings:
- Merlot
- Syrah
- Albariño
- Moscato d’Asti
6. Pineapple – Tropical Freshness
Pineapple’s sweet-tart flavor harmonizes beautifully with wines that have high acidity and tropical notes. A dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the fruit’s acidity and makes for a refreshing combination. For a more exotic experience, try a sweet dessert wine like Tokaji.
Best wine pairings:
- Dry Riesling
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Tokaji
7. Cherries – Dark and Flavorful
Cherries have an intense and often slightly tart taste, making them a perfect match for red wine. A glass of Barbera or Tempranillo enhances the fruit’s fresh notes and creates a bold, flavorful combination. If you enjoy sweeter cherries, Valpolicella Ripasso is an excellent choice.
Best wine pairings:
- Barbera
- Tempranillo
- Valpolicella Ripasso
Pairing fruit with wine is all about balancing acidity, sweetness, and structure. Sparkling wines work well with berries, while full-bodied reds complement dark fruits like cherries and figs. By experimenting with different combinations, you can discover new favorites and take your wine experiences to the next level.
So next time you pour yourself a glass—why not pair it with a piece of fruit? 🍷🍇
