When it comes to food and drinks, it’s hard to resist the perfect pairing. This very idea impelled Mat “Slimm” Adkins and Jeff Jones to open The Pairing: Crossroads Wine & Grocer in Kansas City’s East Crossroads late last year.
The handsome 3,500-square-foot storefront offers local and regional beers and national and international wines and spirits that pair with its impressive selection of local and imported cheeses, cured meats, chocolates and condiments.
Adding to the appeal of the shop is a 30-seat wine bar, where customers can sample a cheese or charcuterie board (a vegan charcuterie board is also available) with a glass of wine before making a purchase.
The Pairing: Crossroads Wine & Grocer, 1615 Oak St., Crossroads Arts District, Kansas City, Missouri, 816.882.2751, thepairingkc.com
3 products to try from The Pairing’s selection
Urban Bianco from Amigoni Urban Winery: An ideal wine for a summer picnic, Urban Bianco is a blend of 50 percent Viognier and 50 percent Sauvignon Blanc; the bright aroma of the latter and the mid-palate profile of the former make it unique. Crisp and fresh with notes of apricot, it pairs beautifully with the olives and local cheese sold at The Pairing.
Fling Craft Cocktails from Boulevard Brewing Co.: These cans of all-natural, spirit-forward, ready-to-drink craft cocktails are available year-round in seven flavors, including blood orange vodka soda and cucumber-lime gin and tonic. The newest release, Mojito, is made with island rum, tart lime and refreshing mint to help you beat the heat – even when Caribbean vacations are off the table.