When it comes to pairing wines with raw or lightly cooked seafood dishes like ceviche or crudo, you want to choose wines that complement the delicate flavors of the seafood without overpowering them. Here are some wine options that are known to be great matches for these types of dishes:
White Wines
- Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine is a classic choice for seafood dishes. Its refreshing acidity and citrus notes pair wonderfully with the bright, fresh flavors of ceviche or crudo.
- Pinot Grigio: Another popular option, Pinot Grigio’s light and zesty profile can enhance the subtle flavors of raw seafood without overwhelming them.
- Albariño: This Spanish white wine is known for its vibrant acidity and notes of citrus and stone fruit, making it a great match for raw seafood dishes.
- Vermentino: Hailing from Italy, Vermentino is a versatile white wine with crisp acidity and flavors of green apple and citrus that can complement the delicate flavors of ceviche or crudo.
Sparkling Wines
- Champagne: The bubbles in Champagne can provide a lovely contrast to the texture of raw seafood, while its acidity and minerality can cut through the richness of the dish.
- Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine is light and refreshing, with notes of green apple and pear that can elevate the flavors of raw seafood.
- Cava: Hailing from Spain, Cava is a great alternative to Champagne, with its crisp acidity and citrus notes that can complement raw seafood dishes.
Rosé Wines
Rosé wines can be a surprisingly great match for raw or lightly cooked seafood dishes. Their versatility and refreshing qualities make them a popular choice for pairing with ceviche or crudo.
- Provence Rosé: This pale pink wine from the Provence region of France is known for its dry, crisp profile with notes of strawberry and citrus that can enhance the flavors of raw seafood.
- Spanish Rosé: Spanish Rosé wines are often made from Garnacha or Tempranillo grapes, offering bright acidity and flavors of red berries that can complement the delicate flavors of ceviche or crudo.
- American Rosé: Rosé wines from the United States can vary in style, from bone-dry to slightly sweet, making them a versatile option for pairing with raw seafood dishes.