Dare to Pair

Newly updated edition - 2026 - includes an entire new section on how to choose wine for chocolates and chocolates for wine.

Elevate your chocolate and wine pairing skills when you discover the art of the perfect match. Have you ever wondered why a bold Cabernet Sauvignon makes some dark chocolate sing, while making others taste like a piece of bitter chalk? Or why a milk chocolate infused with organic flavoring oil can either vanish or shine when paired with delicious fruit-forward Pinot Noir?

In Dare to Pair, Julie Nygard, owner of The Chocolate Therapist chocolate company and author of The Chocolate Therapist takes you on an adventurous culinary journey of matching the world's two favorite indulgences.

Inside this comprehensive guide, you will discover:

• How to Taste Chocolate & Wine Properly: Discover the secrets of how to make the most of your pairing using a technique you've probably never tried.
• How to Choose Wine for Chocolate and Chocolate for Wine: Doing your own pairing? Learn which wines pair best and why. Your favorite wine with steak is most likely not your favorite wine with chocolate.
• The "Dare to Pair" Matrix: A curated roadmap of 40 specific pairings-from zesty citrus-infused chocolates and Sauvignon Blanc to smoky single-origin bars and aged Syrah.
• Host Like a Pro: Everything you need to know to host your own chocolate and wine tasting party, complete with party ideas and prep checklists.
• Beyond the Basics: Explore daring matches involving spicy chili chocolate, sea salt caramels, and even fortified wines like Port and Sherry.

Perfect for:

• Gift Givers: The ultimate anniversary, wedding, or "thinking of you" gift for the wine enthusiast in your life.
• Entertainers: Elevate your next dinner party or holiday gathering with expert-level chocolate pairings.
• Cacao Connoisseurs: Deepen your appreciation for fine chocolate by understanding its complex relationship with the vine.

Whether you are a novice looking to impress your friends or a seasoned connoisseur seeking new sensory heights, Dare to Pair provides the expert knowledge and "daredevil" inspiration you need to transform every bite and sip into an unforgettable experience.