A Wine Love Story: Explore Kateryna’s Journey into the World of Wine and Her Favorite Food Pairings

Exploring Wine with Kateryna: A Journey from Ukraine to Burgundy’s Finest

As winter draws near and the holiday spirit fills the air, many of us turn to the comforts of home cooking, fine wines, and cherished company. Kateryna, our Wine Advisor based in Berlin, shares her unique journey, passion for wine, and insights into creating memorable holiday pairings. With over 15 years in the industry and a love for wines that tell a story, she’s as at home in a vineyard as she is with family over a festive meal.

From Language Studies to Wine Discovery

Kateryna’s path to wine was anything but traditional. Originally from Ukraine, her academic background lies in languages, with a degree in translation and philology. However, it was during her work as a waitress in a luxury hotel in Kyiv that her passion for wine truly began—spurred on, amusingly enough, by a crush on a sommelier. “I pretended to be interested in wine to talk to him, but eventually, I realized I actually liked wine more than him!” she recalls with a laugh. That lucky encounter turned into a lifelong love for wine that brought her not only deeper into wine studies but also closer to people from diverse backgrounds. Today, she’s in the final stages of completing her WSET diploma, advancing her knowledge and passion for Burgundy.

A Cozy Holiday Season with Memorable Wines

When asked about her holiday plans, Kateryna reflects on the importance of warmth, togetherness, and a bit of indulgence. “These days, everything feels so turbulent. Sharing a special bottle of wine with loved ones is a way to create lasting memories.” This year, she plans to open some bottles she’s been saving, including a 2009 Clos Marey-Monge Magnum. “It’s an experience, not just a wine,” she explains. “Elegant, graceful, with floral notes and plenty of life left—it’s a perfect fit for a cozy gathering.”

For the New Year celebrations, she plans to keep it simple yet exceptional, with close friends and family and perhaps a trip to Champagne. “The holiday season is all about reconnecting with those we love most,” Kateryna shares, “and nothing complements that better than a remarkable glass of wine.”

Perfect Pairings for Festive Feasts

Kateryna’s go-to pairing for the season is as classic as it is delicious: Burgundy Pinot Noir with duck confit and cranberry sauce. “Pinot Noir and duck are a timeless pairing,” she explains. “The cranberry adds a touch of acidity and a hint of sweetness, balancing the wine’s freshness beautifully.” This choice not only brings out the Pinot Noir’s depth but also adds layers to a hearty winter meal. For those seeking inspiration, Kateryna recommends playing with classic flavors and seasonal ingredients. “Pinot Noir works wonderfully with everything from poultry to certain fish, especially in cooler vintages that retain more freshness.”

Wine Pairing Basics (and When to Break the Rules)

For newcomers to wine pairing, Kateryna’s advice is simple: enjoy the process and experiment. She emphasizes one key rule, though: avoid pairing sweet dishes with dry wines. “Sweet foods tend to clash with dry wines, overshadowing both the dessert and the wine’s flavors,” she notes. “Instead, try a wine that’s as sweet as, or sweeter than, your dessert to enhance the flavors.”

Surprising pairings can also be delightful. Kateryna suggests trying Pinot Noir with fish, despite the traditional preference for white wines with seafood. “Cooler vintages, with their lighter body, work incredibly well with dishes like salmon or tuna,” she shares, citing some of her favorite combinations like Volnay Premier Cru 2014 with tuna carpaccio. “Let your taste guide you, and don’t be afraid to try new things.”

Burgundy’s Timeless Appeal and Biodynamic Practices

When discussing her love for Burgundy, Kateryna is passionate. “Burgundy is more than just wine—it’s a culture, a product of history and meticulous craftsmanship.” She believes Burgundy captures the terroir, reflecting the unique land and traditions of each vineyard. “Wine is like a piece of art. You drink not only the flavors but the essence of the place it comes from.”

Kateryna is also a strong proponent of biodynamic practices, which she believes contribute to the wine’s complexity and longevity. “Biodynamic wines have more layers, density, and power,” she explains.

A New Generation of Wine Lovers

Kateryna sees an exciting shift in the wine world, particularly with younger, conscious consumers. Millennials, she says, are more interested in the stories behind each bottle and are keen on sustainable practices. “These consumers want to know the origins of their wine and appreciate the efforts that go into biodynamic farming. They’re looking for authenticity and responsibility.” She believes that this generational shift encourages winemakers to produce wines that are not only exceptional but also eco-friendly.

Advice for Exploring Burgundy

For anyone beginning their wine journey, Kateryna’s advice is to stay curious and travel. “If you’re ever near Burgundy, take a moment to visit. Walking the vineyards and meeting the people who make the wine brings an entirely new appreciation to each glass.” She encourages budding wine lovers to embrace the history, terroir, and people behind each bottle. “It’s about connecting with the place and letting that deepen your enjoyment.”

As the holidays approach, Kateryna reminds us that wine is about more than just flavor—it’s a way to connect, to create memories, and to celebrate life. So, whether you’re enjoying a classic Pinot Noir with a festive roast or sharing an unforgettable bottle with loved ones, remember that wine is an invitation to savor not only the season but the moment.