A culinary experience at La Makha transcends the plate: it is a sensory journey where every element is carefully orchestrated. Just as ingredients travel from every corner of Colombia to the table, the beverages that accompany them embark on a parallel voyage. The restaurant’s pairing program is a cornerstone of its philosophy, a deliberate search for liquids that converse—rather than monologue—with the complexity and soul of Chef David Suárez Estrada’s cuisine.
Far from classic conventions, the team at La Makha, guided by an expert sommelier, has created a beverage list that faithfully reflects its culinary proposal: sophisticated, unique in identity, and deeply rooted in the land. Here, a local tintillo paisa can pair just as well as a Bordeaux, and a cocktail infused with Amazonian herbs can steal the spotlight from a crisp white wine.
1. Wine Selection: A Viticultural Map for Colombian Flavors
La Makha’s wine list defies expectations. While it includes prestigious international labels, its true gem is the selection of Latin American wines and the commitment to high-altitude vineyards.
The Approach: The sommelier seeks not to impress with names, but with harmonies. He understands that the vibrant, acidic, and sometimes earthy flavors of Colombian cuisine require wines with character, lively acidity, and minerality.
High-Altitude Wines from South America: The focus is on wines from mountainous regions such as Cafayate (Argentina) or Chile’s Valleys, where altitude imparts bright acidity and a taut mouthfeel that perfectly cuts through the richness of avocado purée or elevates the freshness of a tumbo ceviche.
Organic and Biodynamic Discoveries: There is a clear preference for wineries that work with sustainable practices, producing wines that express an unmasked terroir—an idea that resonates deeply with La Makha’s philosophy of origin. A dry German Riesling or an organic Oregon Pinot Noir can be brilliant suggestions for fish or poultry dishes with complex sauces.
2. Botanical Cocktails: Mixology of the Territory
This is perhaps the most innovative and authentic facet of the pairing. La Makha’s bar functions as a botanical laboratory where spirits are infused with the very essence of Colombia.
The Philosophy: Cocktails are not mere aperitifs; they are travel companions for the entire menu. They are designed with the same mindset as the dishes: using native ingredients, modern techniques (infusions, macerations, clarifications), and a clear narrative.
Sample Creations:
Amazonia in a Glass: Aguardiente or gin infused with lemon verbena and lemongrass, copoazú juice, and a touch of Amazonian chili for a spicy finish. Sublime alongside jungle-inspired dishes.
Andean Cocktail: Malt whisky or pisco macerated with highland berries (blackberry, agraz), sweetened with native honey, and shaken with egg white for a silky texture. Perfect with regional meats or cheeses.
Caribbean Breeze: Colombian artisanal rum mixed with corozo juice, lime juice, and panela-ginger syrup. Served chilled, it’s the ideal complement to flavors from the sea.
3. Native Infusions: The Spirit of the Land in a Cup
For those seeking a non-alcoholic experience or wanting to connect with purer flavors, La Makha offers a menu of infusions and tisanes that becomes an ethnobotanical journey.
More than Tea: These infusions go far beyond commercial tea bags. They are meticulously crafted blends of herbs, flowers, dried fruits, and spices gathered from different regions.
Highlighted Selections:
“Mountain Air” Infusion: A mix of native chamomile, Andean mint, and lemon balm, bringing calm and freshness—ideal after a meal.
“Living Jungle” Infusion: An energizing combination of coca leaf (for culinary use), dried guava, and ginger. A tribute to ancestral traditions with a spicy twist.
“Sierra Coffee” Infusion: Lightly roasted coffee beans with cinnamon and orange peel, delivering all the aromas of coffee with a softer, completely different flavor profile.
The Perfect Harmony Between Plate and Glass
La Makha’s pairing program is a natural extension of its culinary proposal. It is an invitation to drink the Colombian landscape as much as to eat it. It proves that authenticity and sophistication can coexist, and that the perfect beverages for this cuisine don’t always have to come from abroad; often, they are right here, waiting to be discovered and paired with creativity and expertise.
Ready for a Complete Pairing Experience?
To fully immerse yourself, let La Makha’s team guide you through its beverage menu. The pairing option for the tasting menu is the most comprehensive way to experience this harmony.
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Discover how a drink can transform a bite into an unforgettable memory.
