As social distancing measures continue to be in effect, it can be hard to find inventive ways to make dinner with family or friends more enjoyable. Why not try something a little different and enjoy a good bottle of wine with dinner? Wine can add flavor, aroma, and complexity to a dinner conversation.
For starters, there are several types of wine that pair great with different meals. For instance, a Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with lighter proteins such as white fish or grilled vegetables. A Pinot Noir is great for heavier dishes such as steak and grilled lamb. If you’re having a pasta night, try a Chianti or Nebbiolo. No matter what type of dinner you’re making, there’s a wine out there to go with it!
Besides just flavor, having a glass of wine at dinner can be an excellent way to relax and slow down after a long day. Whether it’s a glass after dinner or the first one before you start cooking, sipping on a glass can make the experience even more special.
If you’re new to wine, don’t let it intimidate you! Many stores have knowledgeable staff that can help you choose a bottle that fits your taste and budget. There are also plenty of online resources offering detailed advice on pairing wines with different foods.
By studying up on wine tastings and pairings and planning accordingly, your next dinner party may become an even more memorable event for all the right reasons!
Most of us enjoy having a good glass of wine with dinner, and for many, it’s become a regular ritual. But there are so many different types of wine that it can be overwhelming to decide which one pairs best with which meal.
In general, white wines tend to pair better with seafood and poultry dishes. Generally speaking, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are both excellent choices. Riesling is also a great option if you’re having fish or Chinese food.
Red wines are typically better suited for beef or pasta dishes. Pinot Noir goes particularly well with red sauces and chocolate desserts, while Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel all make excellent accompaniments to steak or veal.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about what to pair with a holiday meal. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, one of the best additions you can make is a good bottle of wine. Though it may seem daunting if you don’t know your way around the wine aisle, selecting the right bottle doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect wine for your next holiday feast.
First, consider what types of food will be served. Depending on the cuisine, particular wines are better suited for certain dishes. For example, if you’re serving Italian food, choose a light Italian red like Chianti or Vento Classico Riserva. A fruity Sauvignon Blanc can stand up to milder fish dishes and salads, while a Pinot Grigio or Gruner Veltliner is recommended for heavier fare like pasta with cream sauce.
Second, select a bottle based on its body and flavour. Wine can be generally classified as light-bodied or full-bodied. Light wine has less weight on the tongue and tends to have delicate flavours. Full-bodied wines tend to have a richer texture with bolder, more intense flavours. Typically, heavier foods such as meat and hearty stews pair best with full-bodied wines like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
Another factor to consider is your budget. While it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the numerous options available, you don’t always have to splurge on an expensive bottle. There are many quality wines that are inexpensive yet still provide a great taste experience. Sparkling wines, such Riesling, Pinot Noir and Moscato, often make great value picks that can please any crowd.
Finally, think about traits like colour and sweetness level when choosing a wine. Red wine usually has a deeper hue than whites and goes great with heavier dishes like steaks or pastas in creamy sauces. White wine tends to have more subtle fruit notes and pairs well with lighter dishes like fish, salads or vegetable dishes. In addition, sweetness levels vary from dry to semi-dry to sweet. Dry wines are best for meals lightly seasoned with acidic sauces or accompanied by cheese or cured meats, while sweeter wines bring out the sweetness in rich desserts like fruit tarts and chocolate mousses.
Ultimately, pairing good wine with your holiday meal is essential for a memorable evening but doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you do your research beforehand and select a bottle that compliments your food choices perfectly.
