Food Pairings with Red Wine

 

Let's talk about one of the most important aspects of wine appreciation: food pairing. When it comes to red wine, there are endless possibilities for finding the perfect match for your meal. Here are some fun and easy tips for pairing food with red wine.

First things first, let's talk about the basics. When selecting a red wine, consider the intensity of the wine's flavor, tannin levels, and acidity. A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with bold and hearty dishes like steak, burgers, and stews. Meanwhile, a lighter-bodied red like Pinot Noir is a great match for lighter fare like roasted chicken, salmon, and vegetable dishes.

But don't be afraid to mix things up and try unexpected pairings. For example, a bold and spicy Shiraz can complement spicy foods like Indian or Mexican cuisine. Similarly, a fruit-forward Zinfandel can be a surprising and delightful match for a pizza loaded with toppings.

Another key aspect of food pairing with red wine is to consider the seasonality of the food. In the summertime, lighter reds like Beaujolais or Chianti pair well with grilled vegetables, seafood, and salads. In the colder months, richer and heavier reds like Merlot or Syrah are a perfect match for hearty soups and stews.

Now, let's dive into some specific food pairing suggestions for red wine.

  1. Steak and Cabernet Sauvignon: This classic pairing is a match made in heaven. The bold tannins and rich flavor of Cabernet Sauvignon complement the savory, umami flavors of a juicy steak.

  2. Pizza and Zinfandel: The fruit-forward and spicy notes of a Zinfandel pair well with the tomato sauce and savory toppings of a pizza. Try a classic pepperoni pizza or experiment with toppings like mushrooms, onions, or even BBQ sauce.

  3. Roasted Chicken and Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir's lighter body and subtle tannins make it a great match for roasted chicken. Add some herbs and spices to the chicken for a flavor boost.

  4. Spicy Foods and Shiraz: Shiraz's bold and spicy notes can stand up to the heat of spicy foods. Pair it with Indian curries, Mexican dishes, or even a spicy BBQ sauce.

  5. Burgers and Malbec: The fruity and earthy notes of Malbec pair well with a juicy burger. Add some blue cheese or bacon for a flavor explosion.

  6. Salmon and Grenache: Grenache's fruity and spicy notes make it a great match for seafood like salmon. Add some herbs and spices to the salmon for a flavor boost.

  7. Pasta and Chianti: The light and fruity notes of Chianti pair well with pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or lasagna.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions to get you started. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new pairings based on your personal taste preferences. Cheers to finding the perfect match for your red wine!


Cheers!