How to Pair Wine with Food: An In Wines We Trust Guide
Welcome to the In Wines We Trust blog! As wine enthusiasts, we believe that wine is more than just a drink—an experience meant to be shared. And what better way to enjoy this experience than pairing your favourite wines with delicious food?
This guide will help you learn the basics of pairing food with wine, ensuring a delightful experience for your taste buds every time.
Understand the basic rules of pairing
- White wines typically pair well with lighter dishes like fish, poultry, and salads.
- Red wines complement more robust dishes like red meat, lamb, and hearty stews.
- Rosé wines are versatile and can pair well with various dishes, from salads to grilled meats.
- Sparkling wines and champagne are perfect to cleanse your palate between bites of rich or spicy dishes.
However, these are just basic guidelines. There are many nuances to pairing wine with food; sometimes, breaking the rules can lead to surprising and delicious combinations.
Consider the flavors and texture of the dish
The key to an ideal pairing is complementing or contrasting the flavors of the dish and the wine. Analyze the dish's ingredients, its preparation method, and the flavors/texture it brings.
For example, a dish with fatty ingredients like salmon or duck could benefit from the acidity of a crisp white wine. In contrast, a spicy Asian dish might be balanced better with an off-dry Riesling or a fruity Gewürztraminer.
Think about the wine's body and weight
The wine's body and weight should complement the dish. A full-bodied red, like Cabernet Sauvignon, can stand up to a rich, hearty dish like a steak or a burger.
At the same time, a light-bodied white, like Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the flavors of a fresh, delicate seafood dish without overpowering it.
Regional pairings
Sometimes, the best pairings are those that come from the same region. For example, a rich Italian pasta dish might pair beautifully with a red wine from Tuscany. When in doubt, pair local cuisine with wines from the same region—they often go hand in hand!
Experiment and have fun!
At In Wines We Trust, we encourage you to break the rules and explore new combinations independently. What works for one person may not work for another, so don't be afraid to try something new. Remember, there are no absolute rights or wrongs when pairing wine with food—everyone's palate is different!
Conclusion
Check out our shop for a curated collection of wines from small, planet-minded producers. If you still need to decide which wines to choose, take our one-minute quiz and let us recommend wines based on your taste preferences. Cheers, and may your wine-and-food pairing journey be filled with joy and discovery!
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