Wine and Cupcake Pairings: Divine Duos
Few things capture my heart (and stomach) as deeply as wine and dessert. It’s a tricky pair, but when done well, the results can be divine! So when I came across Divine Duos on Instagram, I was so excited to learn more about their business. They specialize in cupcake and wine combinations, and are currently in their testing phase in preparation for their launch later this year.
They have a few flavors, but I tried their White Chocolate Raspberry cupcake which they suggest a Merlot pairing (I chose the Morais Vineyard Merlot), and the Carrot with Cream Cheese Frosting which they recommend the Chardonnay pairing (I chose the Barboursville Chardonnay). I was so impressed with both pairing recommendations! The cupcakes are nice and fluffy, and aren’t too sweet so it doesn’t overpower the wine. Instead, the baking spices combination in each helps you unpack the layers of flavors in each wine, bringing out its best. I can’t wait for their launch and to see them around Virginia vineyards!
Check out the Q&A below with Divine Duo owner Cassandra Grady, and learn about how she got started and how she’s planning on growing her business!
How did you decide to start Divine Duos?
I have always loved wine and baking and thought why not pair them together to enhance to experience!
What is your baking background? How did the passion start?
I have no professional training other than the hours of practice that I’ve had and my Pinterest board research! I have always loved to bake! I always like trying new recipes and learning why certain results happen. My family also has baking challenges during the holiday times. We have cookie contests, I won last year with my Tiramisu Cookies! We are very competitive so that drives me to always make the best product I can!
What is your main differentiator?
I would have to say that my cupcakes are created with the wine in mind. They are not overly sweet or heavy so that you will be able to enjoy a glass of wine while eating. They are delish on their own, but they get enhanced by your favorite glass of wine.
What products will you be selling?
I will be selling cupcakes. Wine will be provided by the vineyard or your own collection.
What’s the hardest part about getting a business off the ground?
Right now it’s find a space to work out of. Food permits for at home baking/cooking businesses are difficult because of the type of product I am creating. Even though that is difficult it has allowed me the time to really prefect my product and have all my closest friends and family taste test and provide feedback.
What’s been the most rewarding part of building the business? What resources did you lean on?
Seeing my closest friends support me! I also work at a local vineyard here in Northern Virginia so being able to bring my product to work and get feedback from people who are my ideal clientele has been incredible! I also rely a lot on my dad, he is my go to business man who can answer any of my math and business questions.
What’s the best part about a wine and dessert?
Wow, where do I even begin! I guess the best part is who you enjoy them with. During event big event in my life there as always been a wine or a dessert that was involved. Every birthday or holiday had either a barbie doll cake or special cookies, and then as I got older events had wine. My husband even proposed at a vineyard, so that wine holds a special place in my heart. Pairing wine and desserts together is just a relaxing and memorable experience.
In your opinion, what is unique about the Virginia wine industry?
I love the creativeness that the wine makers have in this region. I also love how this region is evolving the Bordeaux varieties. Since Cabernet Franc grows so well in Virginia because of its resilience in the weather conditions, it’s fun to try what winemakers are doing with those grapes.
What is your biggest advice for people wanting to start their own business?
It would be do something you love. Right now, in the world that we live in things change so quickly and you never know what tomorrow will bring. Doing something you love makes it all worth it. Family is so important to me so creating something that I love and can share with them is one of the reasons why I do this.
What else do you have planned for this year?
Right now, I have just accepted a part time job as an assistant baker at a local bake shop, so I’m excited to get some more hands on experience. Other than that I am looking to get into a ghost kitchen, get my permits, and start selling to vineyards in the VA area.
When will you be launching and how can we order?
Right now the plan is to launch in May and to be at some of your favorite vineyards. You’ll be able to order through my Instagram page once I get everything handled. Feel free to follow @divine_duos and share some of your favorite vineyards that should carry my cupcakes!