From salmon steaks to ceviche, your next meal deserves to be paired with the best choice when it comes to wine. Yet, selecting which one goes with a certain meal can sometimes feel like a guessing game.
Does that Bordeaux go with the shrimp? Can you even pair Merlot with a burger?
You might be surprised to find out how many people wonder these exact same things. And really, these are some great questions, and today, we’re going to dispel some of the myths behind wine pairing. This way, whether you’re out with friends or eating in, you’ll know exactly which bottle goes best with any meal.
Chardonnay
A popular white wine choice with a full body, Chardonnay is somewhat dry. It’s flavor can range from full on oak-flavor to even lighter crisper citrus notes. When pairing this one, great choices include chicken dishes and meals with a cream base to them. To mix things up, you can try sushi as well.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Another popular selection, but this time in red, this wine is also a full bodied choice. With a great mouthfeel and strong tannins, it’s often best paired with beef and lamb. For something more casual, try it with some BBQ short ribs.
Sauvignon Blanc
This white wine is much lighter than our previous two choices and often has citrus notes. While it’s also a dry choice, it remains a very flexible wine. From pork and fish to fresh salads and pastas, you almost can’t go wrong with this one.
Pinot Grigio
Light, crisp, and fruity, the Pinot Grigio goes best with lighter fares. While there are some tart notes to this one, the apple and pear flavors it often exudes are just right for mild fish and cheese, but also a smaller, less-rich salad.
Pinot Noir
This lighter red is a good contrast to our other reds here. It’s cherry and cranberry are evenly matched when paired with more exotic meats like veal or duck. At the same time, it also goes well with pork or chicken and is excellent with firmer, but not hard, cheeses.
Zinfandel
The Zinfandel is a sweet classic. Encompassing nearly every tasty fruit you can imagine, it’s medium to heavy body is rightly paired with more spicy foods, especially BBQ. But two uncommon pairings to try are with a great curry dish or some Thai food.
Merlot
Another ever-popular wine that brings with it plum and deep cherry flavors. Almost any tomato-based meal will work perfectly with Merlot. Red meats are also another choice as are chocolatey desserts.
Chianti
Hands down, you’re going to love pairing this Italian classic with pizza. It’s also true that Chianti goes well with hearty spaghetti dishes and lasagna as well. And if you’re looking for a meat to add, you can’t go wrong with lamb here.
Sangiovese
Our next wine choice is also an Italian classic, but isn’t as well known. But it can be a great casual wine with a delicious burger. The acidity, with it’s light grape, really cuts through a grease burger in just the right way.
Malbec
Our finally selection is also known for its versatility. This red wine from Argentina is soft and sleek in its presentation. For this one, go with lean meats or lighter pasta fares. For example, a beef tenderloin steak will be absolutely excellent.
Just remember, wine is an experience that begs for experimentation and discovery. Always be willing to go out on a limb and try new things. And with our guide here, you have the perfect launching point for that journey.
