Bruno Temmerman is sommelier at Pacht26 in Gijzegem, Belgium. A sommelier-conseil and wine entrepreneur with 14 years of experience, he has also run WIJN in Hofstade since 2015, focusing on distinctive wines from lesser-known European regions.

At Pacht26, he works closely with the kitchen to develop wine pairings that support the restaurant’s culinary identity. His approach combines an open-minded palate with a commitment to authenticity, making wine accessible while preserving its depth and connection to its origin.

“A great wine should enhance, not overshadow. It should tell a story alongside the cuisine. For me, pairing begins with flavour, mood and context, rather than rigid rules. I look for characterful wines that reflect their origin, bringing accessibility and depth together so that each glass remains approachable without losing its nuance or complexity.”

Produced by Tenuta Guado al Tasso in Bolgheri, Tuscany, Guado al Tasso is classified as Bolgheri DOC Superiore. The 2016 vintage combines 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, offering a harmonious expression of fruit, freshness and structure.

Bruno recommends serving it at around 17°C in a Bordeaux glass, without decanting.

“An intense and complex 2016 red wine from Tenuta Guado al Tasso in Bolgheri, combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Its red fruit character is layered with delicate floral notes and a subtle touch of fresh-cut tobacco. On the palate, tannins, sweetness and fruit come together seamlessly, supported by lively, refreshing acidity and a long, elegant finish.

Younger and middle-aged vintages offer different possibilities at the table, while more mature expressions can be appreciated on their own, allowing the wine’s balance and character to take centre stage.

Intense, complex and unique.”

Guado al Tasso has the depth to accompany game and rich dishes, but Bruno also values the simplicity of enjoying it with cured meats or on its own. His suggestions explore how different vintages offer different possibilities, from youthful expressions at the table to more mature wines enjoyed in a quiet moment.

“The 2016 vintage pairs beautifully with game dishes such as venison or wild boar stew, particularly in a relaxed setting from autumn to early spring. It is also a wine to enjoy on its own, giving its depth, balance and elegant finish the space to be fully appreciated.

For a more unexpected match, simplicity can be the key: bread and cured meats such as prosciutto or salumi allow the wine to shine. A younger vintage, such as 2022, handles the saltiness and richness of these cuts with ease. For a vegetarian alternative with that younger vintage, eggplant with pecorino cheese offers another pairing.

For the ultimate dish alongside the 2022 vintage, young pigeon with goose liver and a red wine reduction brings together richness and depth.”

Tenuta Guado al Tasso is located in the prestigious Bolgheri appellation on the Tuscan coast, approximately 100 kilometres southwest of Florence. Its approximately 320 hectares of vineyards lie within the Bolgheri amphitheatre, where gently rolling hills surround a coastal plain.

Sea breezes moderate the summer heat, while cool night-time air from the hills helps preserve the grapes’ aromatic qualities. Varied alluvial soils, ranging from sandy-clay to silty-clay and containing fine Bolgheri gravel, contribute to the distinctive character and territorial identity of the wines.