Food and wine critics have always been intrigued by pairing wine with different cuisines. The traditional approach to pairing wine is to match the color and body of the wine with the dish’s richness and intensity. However, we have a twist to offer to elevate your dining experience to a new level, brought to us by Millesima USA – an NYC-based wine store.
Millesima USA – A Retailer with a Unique Range of Wines and Spirits
Before we dive into the art of wine pairing, let me introduce you to Millesima USA. These guys started out in 2006 on New York’s Upper East Side, with a straightforward goal – to offer a comprehensive and unique range of wines and spirits at their retail location and online. They provide a curated selection of wines worldwide. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a novice, Millesima USA has a great bottle for everyone.
Pairing Wine with Your Meals – The Classic Approach
Let’s start with the traditional approach to pairing wine with your meals. The rule of thumb is to pair white wine with fish and poultry and red wine with red meat. For instance, grilled fish or chicken pairs well with a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, while steak or lamb goes well with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon. The goal is to balance the food’s richness with the wine’s strength.
The Twist – Pair Wine with the Sauce
Now, let’s talk about the twist. Instead of matching the wine with the protein, pair it with the sauce. Sauces are a dish’s soul, often determining the flavors and aromas. In this regard, a cream-based sauce goes well with a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay whereas a tomato-based sauce goes well with medium-bodied red wines like Chianti or Pinot Noir. Check out our article about pairing Chardonnay with Seafood.
Pairing Wine with Spices and Herbs
Another twist to wine pairing is to match it with the spices and herbs used in the dish. Spices and herbs are the flavor enhancers of a plate, and they often determine the wine’s aroma and taste. A food containing herbs like rosemary or thyme pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot, whereas a spicy dish pairs well with a sweet white wine like Riesling.
Pairing Wine with Cheese
No dining experience is complete without a cheese course, and wine pairing is no exception. The classic approach to pairing wine with cheese is to match the wine’s color and body with the cheese’s richness and intensity. Soft cheese like Brie pairs well with a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, and hard cheese like Parmesan pairs well with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Unconventional Pairings
Gone are the days when wine pairings were limited to traditional matches like red wine with red meat or white wine with seafood. Today, there is a growing trend of pairing wines with unexpected dishes. For instance, a spicy Thai curry can be paired with a dry Riesling, or a buttery Chardonnay can be paired with a juicy burger.
Low-Alcohol Wines Pairings
Low-alcohol wines, which typically have an alcohol content of 10% or less, are becoming more popular among health-conscious wine lovers. These wines are a great option for those who want to enjoy a glass of wine with their meal without feeling the effects of high alcohol content. They pair well with lighter dishes like salads, seafood, and grilled vegetables.
Sustainable Wines Pairings
Sustainability is a growing concern in the wine industry, and many winemakers are now producing wines that are environmentally friendly and socially responsible. These wines, often labeled as “organic,” “biodynamic,” or “sustainable,” pair well with farm-to-table dishes that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Conclusion
Pairing wine with your meals and snacks is an art, and it requires a combination of knowledge, experimentation, and personal preference. The classic approach to wine pairing is a good starting point, but the twist we have offered will take your dining experience to a whole new level.
Millesima USA is the perfect retailer to help you explore and experiment with different wines worldwide. And for those seeking expert services in transporting and storing these fine wines, The Wine Mover offers the perfect solution, ensuring your premium selections are handled with the utmost care.
So, go ahead and try the twist, and let your taste buds guide you to the perfect wine pairing for your next meal.
