Pairing chocolates with your favorite drinks isn’t just a treat—it’s an experience that elevates every nibble and sip.
With Zotter’s exquisite range of hand-scooped, bean-to-bar, and Labooko chocolates, you have the perfect canvas to experiment with a variety of flavor combinations.Â
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a coffee aficionado, or a tea lover, our guide will help you discover decadent pairings to delight your palate.
Why Pair Zotter Chocolates?
What makes Zotter Chocolates so versatile for pairing? The answer lies in their quality and craftsmanship.
Each chocolate bar is made with organic and fair-trade ingredients, offering pure, vibrant flavors. With over 170 varieties, from single-origin dark chocolates like 80% Colombia to inventive creations like Lemon in Cacao, there’s a flavor to match every drink.
Pairing these chocolates unlocks new taste dimensions, enhancing the nuances of both the chocolate and the accompanying beverage. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests or enjoy a flavorful indulgence just for yourself.
Wine and Chocolate Pairing
Pairing chocolate with wine is a classic choice, but getting it right requires balance. The key? Complement or contrast the dominant flavors of your wine and chocolate.
Red Wines
- Dark Chocolate with High Cacao Content (e.g., Peru Criollo Blend 82%): Pair with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The chocolate’s earthy and bitter notes balance beautifully with the wine’s tannins.
- Hand-Scooped Chili Chocolates (e.g., Currant’N’Chili): Pair with Zinfandel. The bold fruitiness and slight spice in the wine mirror the chocolate’s heat.
White Wines
- Milk Chocolate Varieties (e.g., Nicaragua 50%): Pair with Riesling or Moscato. The wine’s sweetness complements the creamy, caramelized notes in the chocolate.
- Coconut Dark Chocolate (e.g., Dark Chocolate with Coconut & Mango): Pair with Sauvignon Blanc. The citrusy undertones enhance the tropical notes in the chocolate.
Sparkling Wines
- Fruity Chocolate Bars (e.g., Sour Cherry in Cacao): Pair with Prosecco or Champagne. The bubbles cleanse the palate, highlighting the chocolate’s fruity tartness.
Pro Tip: To elevate your pairing experience, allow the chocolate to slowly melt on your tongue before sipping the wine. This lets the flavors mingle harmoniously.
Coffee and Chocolate Pairing
Coffee and chocolate share a natural connection—they’re both rich, complex, and beloved for their comforting flavors. When paired thoughtfully, they create a symphony of taste.
Bold, Dark Roasts
- Single-Origin Dark Chocolates (e.g., Bolivia 90%, 100% Madagascar): Pair with a French press or espresso. The strong coffee flavors are a fantastic match for these intense chocolates.
Medium Roasts
- Nutty or Caramel Chocolates (e.g., Butter Caramel): Pair with a medium roast. The toasty, nutty notes in the coffee enhance the caramelized flavors of the chocolate.
Light Roasts
- Fruity or Floral Chocolates (e.g., Raspberry-Coconut): Pair with a light roast brew. The chocolate’s tart and fruity qualities are amplified by the bright, acidic profile of the coffee.
Pro Tip: Experiment by adding a small piece of chocolate directly into a hot coffee for a luxurious mocha-like twist.
Tea and Chocolate Pairing
Tea pairs beautifully with chocolate, creating an elegant and soothing experience. Whether you prefer black, green, or herbal teas, there’s a chocolate to suit.
Black Teas
- Rich, Creamy Chocolates (e.g., Milk or Peanut Caramel): Pair with Assam or Earl Grey. The tea’s malty and bergamot notes enhance the chocolate’s creaminess.
- Spiced Chocolates (e.g., Mango Chili): Pair with Chai. The warm spices in both the tea and chocolate create a comforting symphony.
Green Teas
- Bright, Fruity Chocolates (e.g., Mango Tango): Pair with Sencha or Matcha. The chocolate’s fruit-forward profile contrasts the tea’s grassy undertones.
Herbal Teas
- Flavored Chocolates (e.g.Poppy Seed & Cherry): Pair with Hibiscus or Mint teas. The tangy or cooling qualities of herbal teas provide a delightful contrast.
Pro Tip: To maximize aroma and flavor, steep your tea to the correct time and temperature before enjoying it with Zotter chocolates.
How to Host a Chocolate Pairing Session
Want to share the magic of chocolate pairings with friends or family? Hosting a pairing session is easier than you think.
- Choose Your Pairings: Select 3-4 Zotter chocolates and a variety of wines, coffees, or teas. Include options with different flavor profiles for a diverse experience.
- Set the Mood: Present the pairings on a clean, inviting table setup. Incorporate tasting note cards to help guests understand each pairing.
- Taste Methodically: Have your guests take a small piece of chocolate, savor it, and then sip their beverage. Discuss the flavors and textures to make the experience interactive.
- Experiment: Encourage creativity and experimentation. Sometimes surprising combinations result in the best pairings.
Why Zotter?
Zotter doesn’t just deliver great chocolate—it delivers an experience. Beyond their variety and quality, Zotter Chocolates stand out for their commitment to ethical practices. Each bar is crafted with organic, fair-trade ingredients, and their innovative flavors have earned them legions of loyal fans worldwide.
Drinks and dessert pairings aside, Zotter offers a cultural discovery with every bite. Whether you indulge in their Discovery Packs or opt for single bars, you’re exploring chocolate at its finest.
Discover the Perfect Pairings Today
Whether you’re selecting wine for a dinner party, brewing your favorite coffee blend, or relaxing with a cup of tea, Zotter Chocolates transform every moment into a delicious ritual.
Are you ready to explore the world of Zotter Chocolate?
Embark on a sensory journey with Zotter Chocolates, where every piece is a testament to the soulful essence of Bean-To-Bar, organic, and fair trade practices. Savor the results of 30+ years of passionate craftsmanship, as each bite whispers tales from Austria’s heartlands.
Let the unique and distinct flavors of our chocolates embrace your senses, reminding you of the love and dedication poured into every piece. Our diverse range of chocolates boasts approximately 170 varieties, offering something to satisfy every palate.
Will your next favorite chocolate be, perhaps the “Blackcurrant in Cacao”, with tangy flavors of black currant and rich dark chocolate? Join us in pursuit of chocolate perfection, where every piece is a piece of joy, waiting to be discovered.