This archive report was first published on 21 December 2021.
Wine and Food Pairing: A Guide to a Memorable December ¶
As the festive season approaches, many of us are eager to host a memorable wine and food pairing experience for our loved ones. However, the task of pairing the perfect wine with our favorite dishes can be daunting, especially for those new to the world of wine.
On a recent visit to Hemingways Nairobi, a luxury five-star boutique hotel in Karen, we had the opportunity to attend a wine and food pairing session hosted by Mr. Richard Kimenyi, the General Manager, and Ms. Victoria Mulu-Munywoki, Founder and CEO of Cellar 254.
Ms. Mulu-Munywoki, a celebrated Sommelier, emphasized that wine and food pairing should not be a complex task. "It is way easier than you may think," she said. With her expert guidance, we learned the art of pairing wine with food and how to create a memorable experience for our guests.
Here are 13 tips on how to create a match made in heaven:
- Choose a simple theme for the wine pairing that works for you.
- Find out any food intolerances or allergies your guests may have and eliminate these from your menu or provide alternatives.
- Ensure you have bubbles as a welcoming drink.
- Think local and seasonal for food.
- The right wine glasses help wine taste better.
- Pair wines based on the food you serve.
- Encourage your guests to stay hydrated.
- Serve wine at the right temperature.
- Include a surprise element.
- Ensure sufficient wine and food for the number of invited guests.
- RELAX and enjoy yourself.
- Always have plenty of water on the table.
- Remind your guests to pace themselves.
By following these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable wine and food pairing experience for your loved ones this December.
As Ms. Mulu-Munywoki so aptly put it, "Drinking good wine with good food in good company is one of life's most civilized, enjoyable pleasures."
