March 15, 2024•5 min read•Pairing

How to Choose a Wine According to Your Meal

Choosing the right wine to accompany a meal can elevate the gastronomic experience, enhancing the flavors of both the dish and the beverage. The harmony between wines and food is an art that combines science and taste sensitivity. Here are some practical tips to help you select the ideal wine according to what will be served.

1. Basic Principles of Pairing

Before diving into specific combinations, it's important to understand some general principles:

  • Intensity Balance: The wine and the dish should have similar intensities. Light dishes pair better with light wines, while more robust dishes call for full-bodied wines.
  • Complement or Contrast: You can choose to complement the flavors of the dish (for example, a sweet wine with dessert) or create contrast (like an acidic wine to balance fatty dishes).
  • Consider the Dish Elements: Pay attention to the main ingredients, sauces, and seasonings, as they directly influence the wine choice.

2. Pairing by Dish Type

Here are some wine suggestions for different meal categories:

Red Meats

Full-bodied red wines are the classic choice for red meats. The tannic structure of these wines complements the juiciness and fat of the meat.

Examples: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah

White Meats

For meats like chicken or turkey, opt for white wines or light reds.

Examples: Chardonnay (white), Pinot Noir (light red)

Fish and Seafood

Fresh and acidic white wines pair perfectly with fish and seafood, enhancing their delicacy.

Examples: Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño, Verdelho

For fattier fish (like salmon), a Pinot Noir or rosé can also be good options.

Pasta

The wine choice depends on the sauce:

  • Red sauce: Medium-bodied reds like Merlot or Chianti
  • White sauce: Creamy whites like Chardonnay
  • Pesto sauce: Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino

Cheeses

  • Fresh cheeses (like mozzarella): Light white wines or sparkling wines
  • Aged cheeses (like parmesan): Full-bodied reds like Barolo or Bordeaux
  • Blue cheeses (like gorgonzola): Sweet wines like Port or Sauternes

Desserts

Desserts call for sweet wines that complement the sugar in the dish.

Examples: Muscat, Port Wine, Late Harvest

3. Additional Tips

  • Sparkling Wines: They are extremely versatile and work well with appetizers, light dishes, and even desserts.
  • Rosé Wines: An intermediate choice that pairs well with various dishes, from salads to lighter meats.
  • Spicy Dishes: For spicy cuisines (like Thai or Indian), prefer aromatic and slightly sweet white wines, like Riesling or Gewürztraminer.

4. Experiment and Discover

Although there are general guidelines for pairing, personal taste is always the most important factor. Don't be afraid to try different combinations and discover what works best for your palate.

The right wine choice can transform a simple meal into a memorable experience. With these tips in mind, you'll be ready to explore the world of wines and create delicious pairings!