Pair Like a Sommelier – Advanced Pairing Techniques for Ethnic Cuisine and Regional Wines

As part of the Culinary Trail of the Ethnic and Local Cuisine in the Danube Region project, the advanced course Pair Like a Sommelier was successfully held on 11 February 2026 at the Culinary Trail Demonstration and Training Centre in Novo Mesto, Slovenia.

The aim of the course was to deepen participants’ understanding of indigenous grape varieties, terroir, and regional culinary identities of the Danube Region, while strengthening professional competencies in advanced food and wine pairing techniques. Special emphasis was placed on preserving and interpreting cultural heritage through food and wine, as well as on sustainability and authenticity in gastronomy.

The training was led by Dimitar Nikolov (Mitko), a prominent Bulgarian wine professional, who guided participants through structured tastings, expert analysis, and interactive workshops highlighting the richness and diversity of Danube wine and culinary traditions.

In addition to project partners, the course brought together winemakers, hospitality professionals, food and wine lovers, and wine enthusiasts. Wines from across the Danube Region were tasted, including selections from Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania, further emphasising the diversity and shared identity of the Danube wine landscape.

The training programmes are delivered in physical, online, and hybrid formats to ensure broad accessibility, with a strong focus on inclusivity and outreach to disadvantaged and minority communities.

We thank all participants for their active engagement and look forward to continuing our educational activities within the project.

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