7 Satisfying Pastry and Wine Pairings to Try at Home

Jason McClain

Pairing pastries with wine might sound like a fancy affair, but trust me, it’s a lot easier (and more enjoyable) than it seems. Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch, a casual get-together, or just treating yourself to something special, the right wine can elevate your favorite pastries to a whole new level. Here are seven simple pastry and wine pairings to explore, each bringing out the best in both the pastry and the wine.

Cheese Danish and Sauvignon Blanc

There’s something magical about the buttery, flaky layers of a cheese Danish paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The tart, creamy cheese filling is beautifully balanced by the wine’s zesty citrus notes and subtle herbaceous undertones. Together, they create a refreshing yet indulgent combination that feels like a perfect spring morning.

If you’re not a big fan of Sauvignon Blanc, you could also try a lightly oaked Chardonnay for a slightly richer pairing.

Raisin Roll and Riesling

Raisin rolls, with their sweet, spiced dough and bursts of juicy raisins, go wonderfully with the fruity and aromatic flavors of a Riesling. Opt for an off-dry Riesling—it has just enough sweetness to complement the roll without being overpowering.

The wine’s hints of apricot, peach, and citrus enhance the raisins while cutting through the richness of the pastry. This is a pairing I love to serve for a late afternoon snack.

cinnamon roll with Riesling

Scones with Jam and Sparkling Rosé

Scones, especially when topped with jam or clotted cream, are a classic treat that deserves an equally special wine. I recommend pairing them with a sparkling Rosé. The wine’s light effervescence and berry-forward flavors play up the fruity sweetness of the jam while contrasting nicely with the scone’s crumbly texture.

This duo is perfect for brunches or tea parties, and honestly, it feels festive without needing a celebration.

Brioche and Pinot Noir

Soft, buttery brioche is a versatile pastry that pairs wonderfully with a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. The wine’s earthy undertones and notes of cherry and red berries enhance the richness of the brioche without overpowering it.

This pairing is perfect for a cozy evening when you’re looking for something simple yet satisfying.

Almond Croissant and Moscato d’Asti

Almond croissants are a dream—nutty, buttery, and just sweet enough. To complement their flavor, I suggest Moscato d’Asti. This lightly sparkling, sweet wine highlights the almond’s nutty richness while its floral and citrus notes keep the pairing bright and lively.

It’s a lovely choice for dessert or even just a mid-morning treat.

croissant and wine pairings.

Chocolate Éclair and Cabernet Sauvignon

A chocolate éclair, with its rich pastry, creamy filling, and glossy chocolate glaze, deserves a wine that can keep up. Enter Cabernet Sauvignon. Its dark fruit and cocoa notes echo the flavors of the chocolate while its tannins cut through the éclair’s sweetness.

If you prefer a slightly lighter option, a Merlot would also work beautifully in this pairing.

Apple Strudel and Gewürztraminer

Apple strudel, with its layers of spiced apples and flaky pastry, pairs wonderfully with a Gewürztraminer. This aromatic white wine brings out the warm cinnamon and nutmeg in the strudel while its natural sweetness complements the apple filling.

This pairing is ideal for fall, but honestly, I’d enjoy it any time of year.

A Few Tips for Pairing Pastry and Wine

best wines for pastries

Balance sweetness: A wine that’s slightly sweeter than the pastry usually works best.

Consider texture: Think about how the wine’s body and acidity interact with the pastry’s richness or flakiness.

Experiment freely: These pairings are a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to try new combinations and see what works for your palate.

Pastry and wine pairings don’t have to be complicated. With these easy ideas, you can bring a little extra joy to your snacks, desserts, or gatherings. Which pairing will you try first? Let me know!

Published by

Jason McClain

As the proprietor of McClain Cellars, I am thrilled to finally do the one thing I have always loved the most. Create amazing wines to be shared with my family and friends. After spending 25 years in the dot-com space, my wife Sofia and I decided to throw caution to the wind and focus on what is really important: family, friends, faith and freedom. These are the pillars of this winery and why I love everything about it.

McClain Cellars