Wine Pairing? Crossword Clue

By: Five Letter Words | Last edited: May 05, 2025

Searching for help with the clever "Wine pairing?" crossword clue from the May 05, 2025 New York Times Mini puzzle? We've identified the exact 4-letter answer you're looking for. To enhance your puzzle-solving journey, we've developed interactive features to assist you. Try our letter-by-letter reveal function to gradually discover the solution, or browse our carefully designed hints—including useful word patterns, related clues with identical answers, or comprehensive explanations to guide your thinking process. We've also made it easy to navigate between connected clues from this puzzle, helping you solve multiple clues effortlessly. Ready to explore this wordplay clue about dining and beverages? Let's uncover the answer together!

Crossword Answer:

NEW YORK TIMES MINI, MAY / 05 / 2025
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About This Clue

The May 05, 2025 New York Times Mini Crossword featured the clue "Wine pairing?" with the answer DINE. This is a classic example of wordplay in crosswords, specifically a question mark clue that suggests a twist on a familiar phrase. When we see "wine pairing" in a culinary context, we typically think of foods that complement specific wines. However, the clue adds a question mark to signal that we need to think differently—here, it's asking what activity pairs with wine. The answer DINE reflects the fact that people often enjoy wine while dining, making it a perfect pair for the activity itself rather than a specific food. This type of clever wordplay is a hallmark of the NYT Mini Crossword, challenging solvers to think outside the box.

Wordplay and Cultural Context

The clue "Wine pairing?" exemplifies how crossword constructors use wordplay to create engaging puzzles. Normally, "wine pairing" refers to the practice of matching specific wines with particular foods to enhance the dining experience. Sommeliers and food enthusiasts might recommend a robust Cabernet Sauvignon with a steak or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with seafood. The crossword twist comes from reinterpreting what "pairing" means in this context. Instead of asking what food pairs with wine, the clue is asking what activity frequently accompanies wine consumption—the answer being DINE. The question mark at the end of the clue is the traditional signal to solvers that wordplay is involved, suggesting they should look beyond the literal meaning. This clue also reflects cultural norms around wine consumption, particularly in Western societies where wine is often enjoyed with meals rather than on its own. Wine has been a staple at dinner tables for centuries, with different cultures developing their own traditions around its consumption with food. From formal French dining with precise wine pairings to casual Italian family meals with table wine, the association between dining and wine is deeply embedded in many culinary traditions. The brevity and cleverness of this clue-answer pair showcase the elegance that the NYT Mini Crossword constructors strive for—creating an "aha!" moment when solvers realize the simple but delightful wordplay.

NYT Mini Crossword Tips

When solving clues with question marks in the NYT Mini Crossword, always look for wordplay, puns, or unexpected interpretations of familiar phrases. The question mark is your signal to think beyond the obvious meaning. For the clue "Wine pairing?", you might initially think of foods that go with wine, but the question mark suggests a twist. Consider alternative meanings or contexts for the phrase. In this case, instead of what pairs with wine (food), think about what activity wine pairs with (dining). The four-letter constraint for this answer helps narrow down possibilities. Common dining-related verbs of this length might include "DINE," "EATS," or "MEAL." Given the specific wording of the clue which suggests an activity that goes with wine, DINE emerges as the most logical answer. When approaching clues about food, drink, or culinary traditions, draw on your knowledge of common practices and expressions in these domains. The NYT Mini Crossword often references everyday experiences and cultural norms, making general knowledge and common phrases valuable solving tools. Remember that the Mini format favors accessible answers over obscure knowledge. If you're struggling with a clue, think of the simplest, most straightforward interpretation of the wordplay rather than searching for complex or esoteric answers.

Related Crossword Answers

DINE

Clue: "Have supper"

DINE

Clue: "Go out for a fancy meal"

WINE

Clue: "Red or white drink"

PAIR

Clue: "Match up"

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