Yes, there are traditional wine pairings that may seem surprising but are absolutely delicious with certain dishes. Let’s explore some unexpected but delightful combinations that will elevate your dining experience.
Red Wine with Fish
Typically, white wine is the go-to choice when pairing with fish due to its light and crisp flavors. However, certain types of red wine can also be a great match for certain fish dishes. Here are some examples:
- Salmon: Pinot Noir or Merlot can complement the rich flavors of salmon.
- Tuna: Try a light-bodied red like Grenache or Gamay with seared tuna.
- Sardines: Pair this oily fish with a bold red like Syrah or Zinfandel to balance the flavors.
Sweet Wine with Spicy Food
When it comes to spicy dishes, the general rule is to pair them with a wine that has some sweetness to counteract the heat. While this may seem surprising, the sweetness in the wine can actually enhance the flavors of the spicy food. Here are some suggestions:
- Thai Curry: Riesling or Gewürztraminer can balance the spice in dishes like Thai curry.
- Mexican Cuisine: Opt for a sweet Moscato or off-dry Chenin Blanc with spicy Mexican dishes.
- Indian Curry: A slightly sweet Gewürztraminer or off-dry Riesling can complement the complex flavors of Indian curry.
White Wine with Steak
While red wine is the traditional choice for pairing with steak, certain white wines can also work surprisingly well with this hearty dish. The key is to choose a white wine with enough body and flavor to stand up to the richness of the steak. Here are some white wines to consider:
- Chardonnay: A full-bodied Chardonnay with oak aging can pair beautifully with a juicy steak.
- Viognier: This aromatic white wine can complement the flavors of grilled steak with its peachy and floral notes.
- White Rhône Blend: A blend of Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier can provide a perfect balance of richness and acidity to cut through the fattiness of the steak.
Rosé with BBQ
While beer is often the beverage of choice for BBQ, rosé wine can be a refreshing and surprisingly delicious alternative. The fruity and acidic profile of rosé can complement the smoky and savory flavors of grilled meats. Here are some BBQ dishes that pair well with rosé:
- Ribs: A dry rosé with good acidity can cut through the richness of BBQ ribs.
- Pulled Pork: Opt for a fruit-forward rosé with some sweetness to balance the flavors of pulled pork.
- Brisket: A dry rosé with a touch of tannins can stand up to the bold flavors of smoked brisket.
Sparkling Wine with Fried Food
When it comes to fried foods, the effervescence and acidity of sparkling wine can be a surprisingly perfect match. The bubbles can help cleanse the palate and cut through the richness of fried dishes. Here are some fried foods that pair well with sparkling wine:
- Fried Chicken: Sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Prosecco, can enhance the crispy texture of fried chicken.
- French Fries: The acidity of sparkling wine can cut through the greasiness of French fries, making for a delightful pairing.
- Tempura: The light and bubbly nature of sparkling wine can complement the delicate flavors of tempura.