Gnista wine pairing is becoming a favourite among Michelin chefs around the world. Both the French and Italian red not-wines are trusted by top restaurants for their depth, complexity and versatility. These alcohol-free wine alternatives are crafted with the help of expert sommeliers, resulting in nuanced flavours that pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes — from simple weekday meals to elevated fine dining.
Whether you’re a gourmet chef or a curious home cook, here are our best food pairing tips.
What sommeliers say
“Sour, stiff with clear notes of liquorice, pine and gin. Italian style offers body, tannins, fruitiness and aromatic complexity – the same qualities you look for in a red wine.”
– Ron Blaauw, Ron Gastrobar
Pair Gnista Italian Style like this
Italian Style is known for its tannins, pepperiness and cherry notes. This makes it ideal for:
- Raw meat dishes (carpaccio, Thai beef salad, rare steak)
- Tomato-based dishes (spaghetti alla puttanesca, slow-cooked sauces)
- Yakitori grilled meats and vegetables
Its structure and savoury depth make it a great option when you want something bold and flavourful — without alcohol.
“Not trying to be a red wine, but Red satisfies in the same savoury yet fruity way.”
– Olly Smith, drink expert at tv show BBC 2 Sat Kitchen Live, UK
Pair Gnista French Style like this
The softer, berry-driven French Style lifts delicate flavours and works beautifully with dishes where vegetables are the star.
Perfect pairings include:
- Vegetarian dishes and lighter meals
- Desserts, cheese and marmalade
- Duck, venison or mildly spicy dishes
Its slight sweetness gives it a wide pairing range and makes it a favourite among chefs seeking elegance without alcohol.
Wondering what alcohol-free wine to serve with spicy foods?
Both Gnista reds shine with spice. Their structure, fruitiness and slight acidity (which de-alcoholised wines lack) balance heat exceptionally well.
Tip: serve slightly chilled to enhance the pairing experience.
Michelin restaurants serving Gnista:
We are very proud to see our selection of drinks served at 1, 2 and 3 Michelin starred dining establishments. A selection of them to be found below:
De Librije, Netherlands
Kadeau, Denmark
Brut 172, Netherlands
Bottigleria 1881, Poland
Aleia, Spain
Restaurante Oceane, Portugal
Thevar, Singapore
Mraz & Sohn, Austria
- LVisit our FAQ for answers to common questions about alcohol-free wine alternatives, non-alcoholic spirits and more.
