Wine has been part of civilisation for millennia, evolving with the places and people who make it. Geography, climate and tradition shape style; native grapes and local cuisine complete the picture. Here are core regions to know—and straightforward pairing ideas to bring bottles to the table with confidence.
Pairing basics
France – The Birthplace of Fine Wine
Terroir—soil, climate and tradition—guides style, from structured Bordeaux to ethereal Burgundy and celebratory Champagne.
Famous regions: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Rhône, Loire.
Star grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah.
Pairing ideas: Bordeaux red × roast beef; Burgundy Chardonnay × roast chicken; Loire Sauvignon × goat’s cheese.
Italy – A Vineyard at Every Turn
Countless native grapes and deep food traditions—from Piedmont’s Nebbiolo to Sicily’s sun-drenched whites.
Famous regions: Tuscany, Piedmont, Veneto, Sicily, Puglia.
Star grapes: Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Montepulciano, Vermentino.
Pairing ideas: Chianti Classico × tomato pasta; Barolo × truffle dishes; Vermentino × seafood.
Spain – Sun, Soil, and Structure
Ancient vineyards meet modern craft: long-aged reds, vibrant Atlantic whites and iconic fortifieds.
Famous regions: Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Priorat, Rías Baixas, Jerez.
Star grapes: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Albariño, Palomino.
Pairing ideas: Rioja Crianza × tapas; Albariño × shellfish; Fino Sherry × olives & almonds.
Portugal – Tradition in Every Sip
From foot-treading in the Douro to fresh Atlantic whites—beyond Port, dry table wines shine.
Famous regions: Douro, Alentejo, Dão, Vinho Verde.
Star grapes: Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alvarinho, Baga.
Pairing ideas: Douro red × grilled lamb; Vinho Verde × salads and fried fish.
Argentina – Power and Altitude
High-elevation vineyards bring sun-ripened fruit and cool-night freshness—Malbec leads the way.
Famous regions: Mendoza, Salta, Patagonia.
Star grapes: Malbec, Bonarda, Torrontés.
Pairing ideas: Malbec × steak; Torrontés × spicy ceviche.
Chile – Consistency and Purity
Coast to Andes gives clean, fruit-driven styles with great value and clarity.
Famous regions: Maipo, Colchagua, Casablanca, Leyda.
Star grapes: Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc.
Pairing ideas: Carmenère × smoky BBQ; Casablanca Sauvignon × goat cheese salad.
