6 Decadent Mexican candy and wine pairings that we didn't know we needed!
As Hallowine and the Day of the Dead approach, I can’t help but think about all those fantastic, decadent Mexican childhood flavors. Growing up near the border, I visited my cousins in Texas, and we brought mazapanes or tamarindo pretty often.
Those rich, bold flavors have been with us for years, and passing them on is a tradition. Plus, more of our favorite candies are easy to find in our home states. Can’t complain about satisfying those sweet tooth cravings and reminiscing about the good old days. Who else remembers the Carlos V chocolate bar? Or that super tangy bolsita de tamarindo that made your mouth water like crazy? This time, I’m thinking about recreating those candy flavors from back in the day and pairing them with some wine.
1. Chocolate & Tawny Port
Although port and Chocolate are common pairings, the suggested pairing is a classic because it works! We recommend a Carlos V chocolate bar or any Milk Chocolate Bar that resembles this flavor for the Mexican Candy Twist. The rich, dried fruit and nutty notes in Tawny Port complement the bitterness and complexity of Chocolate. The wine’s sweetness also complements the sintensity of Milk Chocolate.
2. Tamarindo & Off-Dry Riesling
The tartness and fruitiness of Riesling cut through the sour and tangy tamarindo, while the wine’s slight sweetness complements the candy’s sweetness. Riesling is known for pairing well with tart and spicy foods, so grab your bolsita de tamarindo with an Off-Dry Riesling.
3. Coconut Bars & Moscato d'Asti
The light, bubbly sweetness of Moscato d’Asti complements the creamy sweetness of the coconut bar, while the wine’s floral notes enhance the coconut’s aroma. Moscato d’Asti is often paired with fruit-forward desserts, making it a good match for coconut bars.
4. Candied Peanut 'Garampinados' & Pedro Ximénez Sherry
This intensely sweet sherry complements the sweetness of the sugar coating, while its nutty and caramel notes enhance the peanut flavor. Pedro Ximénez is known for its raisin and fig notes, which pair well with nuts.
5. Mazapan & Sauternes
Sauternes’ honeyed sweetness and apricot notes complement Mazapan‘s nutty and almond flavor and sweetness. This pairing might be pricey, but it is well worth it.
6. Cajeta & Pinot Grigio or Dry Riesling
The light body and crisp acidity of Pinot Grigio or Riesling cut through the rich sweetness of cajeta, while the wine’s fruit notes complement the caramel flavors. Pinot Grigio and Dry Riesling are versatile wines that pair well with various desserts, including caramel flavors in la cajeta.
We hope these candy and wine pairings provide a fun way to celebrate old memories while making new ones. Whether you’re revisiting familiar flavors or trying something new, these combinations highlight the joy of our cultural traditions. So, gather your friends and family, enjoy these tasty treats, and toast to the wonderful moments that bring us together.
Cheers to sweet flavors and great memories!
