Almond Snacks and Pinot Noir: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
When it comes to wine pairings, cheese often steals the spotlight. But today, we’re shining a light on a different pairing that will elevate your next wine night: almond snacks and Pinot Noir. This classic red wine, known for its light to medium body and notes of red fruits, pairs surprisingly well with various almond-based treats. Let’s explore some delightful combinations that will tantalize your taste buds.
1. Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds
Our Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds are a natural companion to Pinot Noir. The wine’s bright acidity and red fruit flavors complement dark chocolate’s rich, slightly bitter notes. Meanwhile, the almond’s nuttiness provides a satisfying contrast to the wine’s silky tannins.
Shop: Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds
2. Dark Chocolate Almond Bark
Like the chocolate-covered almonds, our Dark Chocolate Almond Bark offers a delightful interplay of flavors. The bark’s larger chocolate surface area allows for a more pronounced chocolate flavor, which pairs beautifully with the cherry and raspberry notes often found in Pinot Noir.
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3. Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Turbinado Almonds
This sophisticated snack brings an extra dimension to your Pinot Noir experience. The sea salt enhances the wine’s fruit flavors, while the turbinado sugar adds a subtle sweetness that complements the wine’s natural fruit notes. The dark chocolate ties it all together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Shop: Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Turbinado Almonds
4. Roasted Salted Pistachios
While not an almond, our Roasted Salted Pistachios deserve a special mention in this Pinot Noir pairing guide. The rich, buttery texture of pistachios complements the silky mouthfeel of Pinot Noir, while their subtle sweetness harmonizes with the wine’s fruit notes. The salt brings out the best in both the nuts and the wine, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
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5. Roasted-Salted In-Shell Almonds
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Our roasted salted in-shell Almonds provide a satisfying crunch and a clean, nutty flavor that allows the complexities of the Pinot Noir to shine. The salt can also heighten the perception of fruit flavors in the wine.
Shop: Roasted Salted In Shell Almonds
6. RAW Natural Almonds
For purists, our RAW Natural Almonds offer a blank canvas that won’t interfere with the delicate flavors of the Pinot Noir. This pairing allows you to fully appreciate the wine’s characteristics while enjoying the subtle, nutty flavor of the almonds.
Shop: RAW Natural Almonds
Tips for the Perfect Pairing Experience
- Serve your Pinot Noir slightly chilled (around 55-60°F) to bring out its fruit flavors.
- Start with small sips of wine and small bites of the almond snacks to fully appreciate the flavor combinations.
- Cleanse your palate with water between different pairings to experience each combination fully.
- Experiment with different Pinot Noirs (e.g., from different regions) to see how they interact with the various almond snacks.
Whether hosting a wine-tasting party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these almond and Pinot Noir pairings will surely impress. So next time you uncork a bottle of this beloved red wine, reach for one (or all!) of these almond snacks and embark on a delicious flavor journey.
Chocolate products are only available in our retail stores during the summer months due to challenges with shipping chocolate during hotter climates.
What’s your favorite snack to enjoy with a glass of Pinot Noir? Please share it with us on Instagram or Facebook: @StewartandJasper or use the hashtag #stewartandjasper
Cheers to good wine, great snacks, and unforgettable pairings!