*pr-event with Tallink Silja Line

Filled chocolate paired with a dark German beer. Organic Italian red wine served with Swedish cheese from Österbotten. White wine enjoyed alongside flavourful cheese and fresh salad. These were among the premium taste combinations that defined an event where I had the opportunity to discover Tallink Silja Line signature wines and beers for the years 2026–2028.

Each drink had been carefully matched with a small tasting portion that highlighted its character. Professionals had created combinations that many people might never think of themselves: rosé wine with grilled corn and spicy peppers, or champagne paired with salmon sushi and wasabi. Surprisingly, the combination worked beautifully. The sharp heat of the wasabi and the elegant freshness of the champagne complemented each other in an unforgettable way. Even sweet coated popcorn tasted excellent together with champagne.

The champagne itself came from the famous Champagne region of France, from the town of Épernay. None of the Tallink Silja signature wines or beers were alcohol-free, but a single glass served together with food does elevate flavours remarkably, because certain flavour combinations simply require the complexity that only wine or beer with alcohol can bring to the dining experience.

Organic Wines Also as Signature Wines

One of the highlights of the event was meeting the producer of the Spanish wines presented at the event. Had I known Spanish, I could have asked more about the climate and conditions in which he and his father organically cultivate their vineyards in Castilla-La Mancha. It would have been fascinating to hear more about the landscapes and traditions behind the wines.

It was also delightful to notice that Tallink Silja continues to keep organic wines as their signature wines, because I recall them having at least organic rose signature wine also in the years 2024-2026.

The Dark Beer Can Give a Positive Surprise

Italian prosecco was served with cheese and olives — a light, elegant, and timeless Mediterranean pairing. Meanwhile, the signature lager beer from Tallinn was pleasant and easy to drink, but what truly caught my attention was hearing that their alcohol-free beers are sold in Finnish S-markets. Based on this taste event, those might even make excellent non-alcoholic sauna beers.

Still, the event’s greatest surprise came from Germany. A dark beer originating from the island of Rügen completely changed my opinion about dark beers. Many times I have been disappointed by darker beer styles – even last spring the famous Guinness in Ireland left me underwhelmed. But this German dark beer was genuinely impressive. Served together with a rich chocolate praline, the combination became the most memorable flavour experience of the entire event. It is definitely something I want to experience again.

In the end, the event offered a wonderful introduction to European flavours through Tallink Silja Line’s carefully selected signature wines and brewery products for 2026–2028. Professionally curated signature wines and beers also make shopping onboard easier when you want to bring home something that is guaranteed to be high quality.

And my personal favourite — the dark German beer — was not only delicious, but also beautifully packaged in an elegant paper sleeve around the bottle. In other words, you are not only buying a taste experience, but also an aesthetic one.

Tallink | Silja Line Ship’s Wines & Special Brews 2026-2028

• Insel-Brauerei Käpt’ns Baltic Porter – German dark beer from Rügen island
• Bodegas Volver Solnia Sauvignon Blanc – Spanish white wine from Castilla-La Mancha
• Campo Antigo Primitivo Biologico – Italian red wine from Puglia
• PIAFF Brut – French champagne from Épernay
• Tenuta Ca’Vescovo Prosecco Brut – Italian Prosecco from Veneto, Friuli
• Bodegas Volver Espeto Rosé Tempranillo – Spanish rosé wine from Castilla-La Mancha
• Õllenaut Sea Lager – Estonian beer

My Choice Nro1: Insel-Brauerei Käpt’ns Baltic Porter

Insel-Brauerei is located on the island of Rügen in northern Germany and it is renowned for crafting rare beers using traditional brewing techniques and a strong focus on quality. The brewery has gained international recognition, including multiple “World’s Best Beer” awards. The Ship’s Special Brew Porter showcases this philosophy – combining craftsmanship, innovation and a deep respect for brewing heritage.

“The beer is ideal with roasted meats, barbecue dishes and hearty cuisine. It also pairs beautifully with rich desserts. For a fun and indulgent pairing, try it with chocolate cake, brownies or tiramisu, where the beer’s depth enhances sweet and roasted flavors.”

This beer paired with chocolate makes a perfect dessert for adults.

Find more inspiring travel ideas for ships, Germany, Baltics and Europe from my visual travel guide INDIVUE – Trip to Europe