May 20, 2018
National Wine Day | Your Guide to the Perfect Pairing
Did you know that May 25th is National Wine Day? With so many different types of wines made all over the world, celebrating this holiday seems to be pretty easy (as if we needed another reason to drink wine). But the most common question people have when it comes to wine is what to pair it with! So in honor of National Wine Day, here is your one stop guide on which foods are the best to pair with your most common wines so that you can enjoy a glass (or two) and a yummy snack!
Pinot Noir: This wine is known for its light, yet savory flavor profile. That’s why foods with earthly flavors, like mushrooms, pair best with Pinot Noir! Since we typically don’t eat things like mushrooms straight, you can get creative and make a delicious home made pizza topped with a cheese of your choice, mushrooms, onions and tomatoes. What’s not to love about that?!
Cabernet Sauvignon: This red wine simply pairs best with red meats. Whether you cook your favorite cut of steak or become adventurous with lamb chops, this wine will pair perfectly. Cabernet Sauvignon has tannins that freshen up your palate after each bite!
Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc seems to be a favorite amongst most wine drinkers, and that could be because it pairs so well with so many foods! Citrussy Sauvignon Blancs pair deliciously with grilled fish or shellfish such as shrimp, prawns or oysters. This wine will also go well with a salad topped with a tangy, citrusy dressing and last, but certainly not least, sushi!
Pinot Grigio: This is another white wine that pairs perfectly with fish. Light seafood dishes such as shrimp cocktail or pasta with clams will taste incredible alongside a glass of Pinot Grigio. Since this wine tends to be more acidic, avoid pairing it with dishes that are high in acid or citrus.
Chardonnay: By this point, you can probably assume that white wines work best with fish. However, Chardonnay is a little different than the previous two wines because it pairs best with richer fish dishes. Salmon in a heavy sauce, crab cakes or clam chowder are perfect and delicious foods that will taste even better with a glass of Chardonnay!
Champagne: Pairing a food with champagne is super simple. This sparkling wine goes best with anything salty! Combine the simplicity of kettle cooked potato chips with the sophistication of champagne and you have yourself an easy pairing. Step it up a notch and mix champagne with oysters or a crostini with a spreadable cheese and lox. These combinations are to die for!
Rose: Rose wines are very interesting as they have the acidity of a white wine but the fruitiness of a red wine. The best pairing for this wine? Cheese! Almost any cheese will taste amazing with a glass of rose. But you don’t have to keep it so simple with sliced cheese. Try making a gourmet grilled cheese or baked brie in puff pastry. No matter which route you go, rose and cheese will never let you down!
Hopefully this guide will help you get creative and make tasty wine and food pairings this National Wine Day. Be sure to show off your new wine knowledge with your family and friends!
