An easy guide to food & wine pairing

Part 1

Food and wine pairing guide Amsterdam

Let’s face it: pairing food with wine can feel intimidating. But here’s the truth—great food and wine pairings don’t have to be fancy. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner, a lazy Sunday brunch or a rooftop picnic, we’ve got you covered with easy, no-stress combos that just work. Ready to elevate your next bite? Let’s pair it up.

Whether you’re cooking at home, ordering in, or setting up a picnic in the park, this guide will help you match your favorite bottle with the food you love. Think of it as your first step into the delicious world of food & wine pairing.

Pasta night – Red wine, Please!

Pasta with red sauce? Go for a smooth red like Château Amsterdam’s Red: Smooth & Fruity (Tempranillo + Nero d’Avola). It’s juicy, a little spicy, and absolutely perfect with tomato-based dishes or grilled veggies.

Cheese plate moments – Natural is the way

Nothing says main character energy like a cheese board and a bottle of natural wine. Try Marto Riesling from Libre Wines. Its freshness balances soft cheeses, while its funkiness makes it a conversation starter.

Taco Tuesday – Meet the laserburgunder

Spicy taco night? Skip the heavy reds and go for something light, juicy and laser-focused. Andi’s Spätburgunder is a precise and elegant Pinot Noir from Germany, made with a mix of whole bunches and destemmed grapes, aged in neutral wood for 24 months. It’s got those fresh raspberry bush aromas without going into candy territory. What you get is a wine with focus and fraîcheur (yes please), making it the bottle to pair with chipotle, pulled mushrooms or grilled corn tacos. Serve it lightly chilled and let the flavor dance begin.

Sushi & Chill – Say yes to Marguerite

Sushi night? Time to keep it crisp, clean and just a little bit playful. Enter Marguerite 2023 by Domaine Matassa, a beautifully aromatic white from the Roussillon made with Muscat and Macabeu. Think floral vibes, a touch of citrus, and just the right amount of freshness to balance soy, wasabi, or a buttery piece of sashimi. This wine is a total match for sushi’s subtle umami and light texture. Whether you’re rolling at home or ordering your favorite poke bowl, Marguerite brings that elevated, but still effortless vibe.

Chocolate Cravings – Sweet meets smooth

Dark chocolate deserves a wine that knows how to play along without stealing the spotlight. Meet La Rondière Rouge 2023 by Clos de l’Epinay, a juicy, playful blend of Grolleau, Gamay, and Côt from the Loire. Think wild strawberries, blackberries, and a whisper of herbs, wrapped in soft tannins and a silky texture. This natural red is fresh but grounded, making it the perfect match for dark chocolate with sea salt or a slice of rich chocolate tart. It’s fun, unfussy, and under €25, which means more budget for dessert.

Final sip

There are no hard rules in wine pairing, just try, taste, and trust your own vibe. At Unbottled Guide, we’re all about making wine fun, local and full of flavor.

Cheers to your next delicious discovery!