There’s a certain joy in sharing a glass of wine with good company, but what truly makes the moment special is a perfectly paired appetiser. Whether you’re lounging on a vineyard terrace in calm village, enjoying a sunset in Barcelona, or relaxing in your own backyard, the right bites can bring out the best in your wine - and vice versa.
Here are 10 of the best appetisers to enjoy with wine, inspired by flavors from around the world and designed to turn any moment into something special.
1. Manchego cheese with quince jam (Spain)
Pairs well with: Tempranillo, Cava
This classic Spanish pairing is all about contrast: the firm, nutty flavor of Manchego cheese meets the sweet, floral touch of quince jam (membrillo). Add a few Marcona almonds on the side, and you’ve got a tapas plate that’s pure harmony.
2. Caprese skewers with basil oil (Italy)
Pairs well with: Pinot Grigio, Vermentino
Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves - stacked onto skewers and drizzled with basil-infused olive oil. Light, refreshing, and ideal for a warm afternoon with a crisp white wine from the Italian coast.
3. Smoked salmon on rye with crème fraîche (France/Nordic twist)
Pairs well with: Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc
A touch of Nordic elegance meets French finesse. The creamy, salty, smoky layers are a beautiful match for a zesty, acidic white wine or a delicate sparkling wine. Add a sprig of dill for a fresh, herbal finish.
4. Truffle popcorn (Global twist)
Pairs well with: Chardonnay, sparkling wine
Yes, popcorn. But not just any popcorn - this is lightly buttered and tossed with truffle oil and sea salt. It’s indulgent yet playful, making it a conversation starter and a surprisingly luxurious match for an oaked Chardonnay or dry sparkling wine.
5. Prosciutto-wrapped figs (Italy)
Pairs well with: Rosé, Lambrusco
Sweet meets salty in this irresistible bite. The juiciness of the fig contrasts beautifully with the savory cured ham, and when paired with a chilled, dry rosé or a slightly sparkling Lambrusco - it sings.
6. Goat cheese-stuffed dates (Morocco/Spain)
Pairs well with: Garnacha, Zinfandel
These little gems are creamy, sweet, and earthy, with a richness that’s balanced perfectly by a medium-bodied red wine. You can even bake them with a touch of honey and thyme for extra flavor.
7. Oysters with mignonette (France)
Pairs well with: Chablis, Albariño
There’s nothing quite like the briny freshness of oysters, especially when served with a simple mignonette of vinegar and shallots. They call for something clean, mineral, and chilled - a glass of Chablis or a bright Albariño from Spain’s Atlantic coast is perfect.
8. Tapenade with crostini (Provence, France)
Pairs well with: Grenache Blanc, dry rosé
A rich blend of olives, capers, and anchovies, tapenade is bold and savory, best served on thin, crispy crostini. It pairs beautifully with the floral and fruity notes of a Provençal rosé or a dry white with herbal complexity.
9. Burrata with grilled peaches and balsamic glaze (Italy)
Pairs well with: Prosecco, Chenin Blanc
Creamy, rich burrata is made even better with the sweetness of grilled peaches and a drizzle of balsamic. A bright, slightly fizzy wine like Prosecco cuts through the richness and lifts the sweetness into something sublime.
10. Mini lamb koftas with minted yogurt (Middle East/Med)
Pairs well with: Syrah, Cabernet Franc
For those who love something warm and spiced, these bite-sized lamb skewers are bold enough to handle a red wine with structure. A minty yogurt dip cools things down and brings the flavors into balance.
Creating your perfect wine hour
You don’t need a formal setting to enjoy luxury. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences begin with a few beautiful ingredients, a well-chosen wine, and the people you love to share it with.
Looking to explore pairings in person? Our exclusive culinary and wine journeys in Spain give you the chance to taste, learn, and indulge - all in unforgettable settings.
