We found this shortcut to a wine and chocolate tasting party at our local Target store -- disks of different kinds of chocolate imprinted with "dark chocolate: good with port" and things like that. We liked the concept, but not the limitations.
Still, if you're not sure how to start your party preparations, you could buy this box of chocolate and the wines listed on the box, and be ready fast.
We decided to pair chili pepper chocolate with a Zinfandel,
and Sweetique Eggs with a light Riesling.
We had a very dark chocolate with champagne and a chocolate with orange peel paired with a Sauvignon Blanc.
We went with half a dozen chocolates, four wines (two sparkling and two still), and two sparkling juices for the non-drinkers in the group. Two guests brought bottles, so we had plenty of options.
We ended up with one Italian, one French, one German, one Argentinian, and two California wines. Since we also had chocolates from Germany, Switzerland, France, Belgium, Austria, and California, we thought the international flavor was perfect.
For us, the pairings were a big part of the fun, but if you're not sure, we recommend that you choose your chocolates first and take them to the wine shop with you. You can get expert advice about pairings from your wine merchant.
