Game

Game. The word instantly conjures up images of deep forests, hunting, and hearty cuisine rich in autumn and winter flavors. Whether it's hare stew, roast venison, slow-cooked wild boar, or pheasant and woodcock, each game meat offers intense flavors and a unique texture, often firmer and more expressive than farm-raised meats. To enhance these powerful and distinguished dishes, the choice of wine is essential: it must be equal to their assertive personality. At CAVE, we celebrate this culinary tradition and invite you to discover the perfect pairing that will up your game, always starting with the cut and its preparation. 

Pairing wines with game is a stimulating exercise that requires boldness and knowledge. The intensity of game flavors, sometimes slightly "wild" or earthy, as well as their texture, call for wines with character, structure, and a certain aromatic complexity. The richness of the sauces that often accompany these dishes (based on red berries, mushrooms, or wine) is also a key factor. Our "Perfect Pairings" philosophy guides you precisely in this process: finding the wine that will embrace the strength of the game, without overpowering it, but enveloping it with complementary notes.

A few essential principles for successful game pairings:

• Match intensity: The power of game requires wines with a similar structure and aromatic intensity to create a harmonious balance.

• Tannins, friends of game: Red wines with fine, well-integrated tannins are often perfect companions, as they pair well with the texture and sometimes bloody flavor of game.

• Acidity for balance: Good acidity in wine is important to cut through rich sauces and refresh the palate.

• Additional notes: Look for wines with aromas of undergrowth, spices, ripe black fruits, or leather, which will resonate with the flavors of game.

For smaller, more delicate game birds or animals such as pheasant, partridge, or rabbit, elegant red wines with supple tannins and aromas of red fruit or sweet spices make wonderful companions. Their delicate textures call for wines that, when properly paired, respect their delicacy without overpowering them.  Certain wines made from grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, which have already been aged for a few years, can work wonders.

When the table is adorned with more powerful and meaty game such as venison, wild boar, or deer, it is necessary to turn to red wines with character. These wines have a firm structure, silky but present tannins, and complex aromas of black fruits, pepper, licorice, and animal notes. Often produced in regions renowned for their powerful wines, they are capable of standing up to the richness of game and its sauces. A wine that has been aged can bring tertiary notes (leather, undergrowth) that will pair exquisitely with the aromas of game. Certain local grape varieties such as Cornalin, which is structured and complex, or Humagne Rouge, renowned for its sometimes untameable and wild character, can echo the flavors on your plate. 

Our quest for "Perfect Pairings" takes you far beyond the beaten track! We explore varied and exciting terroirs around the world. Our extensive and inclusive selection comprises wines from organic, biodynamic and conventional agriculture, because diversity and open-mindedness are at the heart of our passion for wine. Each bottle we showcase is a gem from our regularly rotating selection of 1,500 wines, chosen specifically for their perfect pairing with game. This approach guarantees a constant source of inspiration for your future discoveries.

Because your tastes are unique and game is an exceptional delicacy, our team of enthusiasts is always on hand to offer personalized advice. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have a specific game in mind or if you're looking to create the perfect pairing that will transform your meal into a true celebration. We can also recommend food and wine pairings with red meat or white meat, offal, as well as fish or to enhance your cigar!

Immerse yourself in our current selection of game and get ready for moments of sharing, intense flavors, and pure authenticity! Great taste doesn't wait!