Discover pourfection in every glass as we unravel various types of wines and their destined epicurean matches
Right from a bubbly prosecco, to a sweet riesling, learn what your favourite red or white is best paired with
- By Natasha KitturLoading...
- | 23 Jun 2023 10:42 AM GMT
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Nothing beats the feeling that comes with enjoying a glass of red (or white if that is what you prefer) on a weekend, either in the peace of solitude or the lively energy of a get together with your loved ones. So here’s calling out all wine lovers to get ready to embark on a journey through the vineyards of India. In this article, we'll uncork the secrets of wines and unveil the perfect food pairings that will make your taste buds dance like Michael Jackson on a grape-stomping spree. So, channel your inner vino and get ready to sip and savour, because we're about to pair wines with food like a match made in heaven.
Sparkling Wine
The effervescent darling of the wine world, sparkling wine is like a burst of tiny bubbles that tickle your palate with joy. When it comes to the perfect pairing opt for light seafood dishes like oysters, sushi, and prawns. The effervescence of the wine uplifts the delicate flavours of the seafood, while its zesty acidity cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious symphony of taste.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc, the zesty and refreshing queen of white wines, reigns supreme when paired with fresh salads, grilled vegetables and the tangy goat cheese. Its vibrant acidity and herbaceous character act as a crisp knife, slicing through the richness of cheese with precision, while also being harmonious with fresh greens, elevating the crispness of salad leaves and accentuating the smoky char of grilled vegetables.
Chardonnay
Lovers of chardonnay know very well that this white is a diva. And on the occasion you’ve got a lovely bottle that you have been waiting to pop open, pair this luscious beverage with the likes of creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, and buttery seafood. Its pleasing and buttery profile perfectly complements dishes that boast creamy textures and flavours, a match made in culinary heaven, where the wine's opulence mirrors the luxuriousness of the dishes.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon, with its robust tannins and intense dark fruit flavours, is the regal king of red wines. A perfect companion for grilled red meats, aged cheeses, and hearty stews, this red boldly stands up to the richness and intensity of the aforementioned dishes. The drink’s velvety texture and complex layers harmonise with the charred perfection of grilled meats, adding depth to the flavours of aged cheeses, and seamlessly blending with the hearty richness of stews.
Shiraz
Shiraz with its bold and robust taste, is a perfect match for spicy Indian curries, barbecued meats, and roasted vegetables. Its peppery and spicy notes beautifully complement the striking flavours and heat found in Indian curries. When paired with barbecued meats, the Shiraz's rich fruit flavours and smoky undertones enhance the charred perfection of grilled dishes. Additionally, when sipped alongside roasted vegetables, the wine's sapid profile elevates the earthy and caramelised notes.
Pinot Noir
The delicate and seductive charmer, pinot noir, finds its perfect companionship in roasted duck, mushroom risotto, and grilled salmon. Pinot noir gracefully matches dishes that possess earthy flavours. As you savour a glass alongside roasted duck, the wine's nuanced fruitiness intertwines with the succulent meat. When paired with mushroom risotto, the wine's subtle notes complement the earthy richness of the dish. And with grilled salmon, the Pinot Noir's supple tannins delicately embrace the fish's buttery texture.
Rosé
Rosé is the epitome of elegance and sunshine in a glass. So it doesn’t really come as a surprise that this dainty beverage finds its perfect harmony when paired with light appetizers, fresh salads, and seafood paella. With each sip of Rosé, its vibrant acidity and delicate tones make it an excellent companion to lighter dishes. When enjoyed alongside fresh salads, the wine accentuates the crispness of the greens. And when paired with seafood paella, the Rosé's subtle fruitiness complements the flavours of the sea.
Riesling
Riesling, a dessert wine, is an enchanting sweetheart when it comes to white wines. Its inherent sweetness and vibrant acidity create a delightful harmony when paired with intense and salty flavours. With blue cheese, the Riesling's sweetness complements the pungent character of the cheese. Alongside foie gras, the wine's luscious sweetness counterbalances the richness of the dish, and when it comes to fruit-based desserts, riesling's sweetness provides a pleasant contrast to the natural tartness of the fruits.
Now that you know the basics of pairing wine and food, next time you indulge in a glass of wine, remember to explore the endless possibilities of pairing it with the perfect dish.
Natasha Kittur
Natasha Kittur is an aspiring writer. Her love for anything with cheese and spice is profound, but a white sauce pasta always tops her list. In her free time you will catch her reading or watching crime books and shows or go on and on about psychological experiments and theories. She aims to write a book in the fictional genre someday.