Halloween isn’t just for kids; adults can enjoy the holiday by pairing their favorite candies with complementary wines and spirits.
Here’s a guide to help you elevate your Halloween candy experience with the perfect adult beverage:
1. Milk Chocolate and Merlot:
- Candies: Milk chocolate bars, chocolate-covered raisins, or peanut butter cups.
- Pairing: A smooth and fruity Merlot complements the creamy texture and sweetness of milk chocolate.
2. Dark Chocolate and Cabernet Sauvignon:
- Candies: Dark chocolate truffles, chocolate-covered cherries, or chocolate with sea salt.
- Pairing: The rich and robust flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon complement the bitterness and complexity of dark chocolate.
3. White Chocolate and Prosecco:
- Candies: White chocolate bark, white chocolate-covered strawberries, or white chocolate macadamia nut cookies.
- Pairing: The light and bubbly nature of Prosecco balances the sweetness of white chocolate.
4. Caramel and Bourbon:
- Candies: Caramel-filled chocolates, caramel apples, or salted caramel candies.
- Pairing: The caramel notes in bourbon enhance the caramel flavors in the candies, creating a delightful synergy.
5. Gummies and Sparkling Rosé:
- Candies: Gummy bears, gummy worms, or fruity gummy candies.
- Pairing: The fruity and effervescent qualities of sparkling rosé complement the fruity flavors in gummy candies.
6. Sour Candy and Tequila:
- Candies: Sour patch kids, sour gummy worms, or lemon drops.
- Pairing: The citrusy and bold nature of tequila enhances the sour and tangy flavors in these candies.
7. Peanut Butter and Stout:
- Candies: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, peanut butter-filled chocolates, or peanut butter cookies.
- Pairing: The roasted and malty flavors of a stout beer harmonize with the nutty and creamy taste of peanut butter.
8. Licorice and Sambuca:
- Candies: Black licorice twists, licorice pipes, or licorice bites.
- Pairing: Sambuca, an anise-flavored liqueur, complements the licorice’s unique flavor profile.
9. Toffee and Port Wine:
- Candies: Toffee bars, English toffee, or almond roca.
- Pairing: The rich and sweet character of a port wine pairs beautifully with the buttery and crunchy toffee.
10. Popcorn and Cider:
- Candies: Caramel popcorn, kettle corn, or popcorn balls.
- Pairing: A crisp and refreshing hard apple cider complements the sweet and salty notes of caramel popcorn.
Remember that taste is subjective, so feel free to experiment and discover your own favorite Halloween candy and beverage pairings. Whether you’re enjoying a movie night or hosting a Halloween gathering, these pairings can add a fun and sophisticated twist to your festivities.
