A revolutionary color-coded approach to food and wine pairing, grounded in the science of molecular gastronomy
The Insta-Somm Perfect Pairing System uses the principles of molecular gastronomy to match foods and wines that share similar molecular structures. Our intuitive color-coded system and numerical scale make pairing effortless for staff and guests alike.
The inspiration for Insta-Somm began at Château Yvonne in France, where the challenge of introducing lesser-known varietals like Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc to American markets sparked an idea: What if strategic food pairings could bridge that gap? By leveraging molecular gastronomy, we created a system that makes wine pairing accessible to everyone—from seasoned sommeliers to first-time servers.
The inspiration for Insta-Somm began at Château Yvonne in France, where the challenge of introducing lesser-known varietals like Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc to American markets sparked an idea: What if strategic food pairings could bridge that gap? By leveraging molecular gastronomy, we created a system that makes wine pairing accessible to everyone—from seasoned sommeliers to first-time servers.
Each color represents a dominant flavor molecule found in both food and wine
Food Examples:
Arugula, basil, pesto, asparagus, green peppers
Wine Examples:
Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Cabernet Franc
Food Examples:
Lemon, pineapple, mango, grapefruit, passion fruit
Wine Examples:
Chardonnay, Viognier, Albariño
Food Examples:
Strawberries, cherries, raspberries, tomatoes
Wine Examples:
Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Grenache
Food Examples:
Cinnamon, clove, mushrooms, truffle, cumin
Wine Examples:
Syrah, Tempranillo, Zinfandel
Food Examples:
Lavender, rose, violet, elderflower, jasmine
Wine Examples:
Gewürztraminer, Moscato, Riesling
Numbers 1-4 indicate the sweetness level, from bone-dry to sweet
Examples:
Most table wines, Champagne Brut Nature
Examples:
Riesling Kabinett, Prosecco, some rosés
Examples:
Moscato d'Asti, Gewürztraminer, Demi-Sec Champagne
Examples:
Port, Sauternes, Ice Wine, Late Harvest
Three simple steps to perfect pairings
See the Perfect Pairing System in action
Bright, citrusy, with notes of fennel and basil
Off-dry character balances the saltiness
Herbaceous notes align with arugula and pesto
Citrus notes complement the glaze
Bright acidity pairs with fatty fish
Stone fruit notes enhance the dish
Cherry notes mirror the sauce
Bright acidity cuts through richness
Red fruit flavors complement the dish
The Insta-Somm Perfect Pairing System is based on the principles of molecular gastronomy—the scientific study of flavor compounds and how they interact. When foods and wines share similar molecular structures, they create harmonious pairings that enhance both elements.