A well-chosen wine can make any meal feel special, and at Box of Wine, they believe great wine deserves equally great food. Whether you’re sipping a bold red or a crisp white from your monthly wine box, pairing it with the right dish can elevate the entire experience.
Here’s your go-to guide for matching each type of wine in your box with food that enhances its flavour, no sommelier required.
1. Red Wine Pairings
Best With: Rich, hearty dishes
Common Varietals in Your Box: Tempranillo, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rioja
Top Pairings:
- Beef stew or roast lamb: Hearty red wines shine when paired with red meat and slow-cooked dishes.
- Spaghetti Bolognese: The acidity in tomato-based sauces complements bold reds perfectly.
- Mature cheeses: Try an aged cheddar or Manchego with a glass of Rioja for a classic Spanish combo.
Tip: Bold reds love umami-rich foods, think grilled mushrooms, aged meats, or strong cheeses.
2. White Wine Pairings
Best With: Light, fresh dishes
Common Varietals in Your Box: Sauvignon Blanc, Verdejo, Chardonnay, Albariño
Top Pairings:
- Grilled fish or shellfish: Crisp whites bring out the freshness of seafood.
- Goat cheese salads: Especially with Sauvignon Blanc, this pairing is tangy and refreshing.
- Thai or Asian stir-fry: The acidity and citrusy notes cut through spice and sweetness.
Tip: Dry white wines pair best with herbs, citrus, and light proteins like chicken, tofu, or seafood.
3. Rosé Wine Pairings
Best With: Summer dishes, tapas, or light bites
Common Varietals in Your Box: Provence Rosé, Garnacha Rosé, Italian Rosato
Top Pairings:
- Grilled prawns or salmon: Rosé complements grilled seafood’s smoky and delicate flavours.
- Mediterranean mezze: Think olives, hummus, flatbreads, and feta cheese.
- Pizza Margherita or bruschetta: Light tomato dishes with herbs and cheese pair beautifully.
Tip: Rosé is incredibly versatile. It bridges the gap between red and white, making it perfect for picnics or spontaneous snacks.
4. Sparkling Wine Pairings
Best With: Salty snacks, creamy dishes, celebrations
Common Varietals in Your Box: Cava, Prosecco, Sparkling Rosé
Top Pairings:
- Smoked salmon blinis or oysters: The bubbles cut through richness and enhance briny notes.
- Parmesan crisps or chips: Salt and crunch make for a satisfying contrast to effervescence.
- Strawberry shortcake: Sparkling rosé and berries are a match made in heaven.
Tip: Sparkling wines excel at palate cleansing. Use them to refresh your taste buds between bites.
5. Boxed Wine Favourites and Irish Food
Don’t forget, you’re in Ireland! And many local favourites pair wonderfully with the wines in your subscription box.
Try these Irish-inspired pairings:
- Shepherd’s Pie + Tempranillo
- Irish Smoked Salmon + Albariño
- Soda Bread + Brie + Sauvignon Blanc
- Roast Chicken + Chardonnay
Local food meets global wine, a match worth toasting.
How to Build a Wine & Food Night at Home
Here’s how you can enjoy your wine box like a true wine lover:
- Start with light bites and whites or sparkling wines.
- Move to medium-bodied rosé or reds with the main course.
- End with cheese or dessert and a second glass of your favourite pour.
Add candles also playlist, and let the night unfold.
Final Sip: Let Your Taste Lead the Way
Wine and food pairing doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with flavour families, bold with bold, light with light, and explore from there. The best part? Your monthly Box of Wine subscription delivers boutique, flavour-rich wines tailored to your preferences, so the hardest part is choosing what to eat with it.
Pair boldly, sip happily, and taste the harmony in every glass.