Unconventional Wine Pairings: Beyond the Traditional
When it comes to wine pairings, we often think of classic combinations like red wine with steak or white wine with seafood. While these pairings are undeniably delightful, there is a world of unconventional wine pairings waiting to be explored. By stepping outside the traditional boundaries, we can discover exciting flavor combinations that elevate our culinary experiences to new heights. Let's embark on a journey to explore some unconventional wine pairings that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Burger and Red Wine
Whether you are eating a veggie burger, chicken burger, or lamb burger, you may want to consume some RED WINE AT THE SAME TIME. If the burger is spicy and flavorful, try a light-bodied red wine, like Gamay, Negroamaro, Lambrusco, or Pinot Noir. Still, if it is the classic cheeseburger, then a blend of Syrah, Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah may enhance the palate.
Macaroni and Cheese
Most people would never dream of consuming wine with Mac & cheese. But with the right sparkling wine, the dish will taste absolutely great in your mouth. Some great sparkling wines that go with this all-American dish include Brut, Moscato, Chardonnay, and Ayala Brut. The creaminess and salt pair excellent with sparkling wines.
Chocolate Ice cream
If you have been waiting to indulge in chocolate ice cream, then try pairing it with a light red wine like PINOT NOIR. Each scoop of chocolate ice cream with a sip of the Pinot Noir will be a delightful experience. The rich milk chocolate flavor, plus the soft fruit aroma of the wine, make a great combination.
Pizza and Red Wines
Regardless of the topping, experts agree that pizza plus red wine is a great pairing. Some of the red wines that can handle a mega-dose of pepperoni and mushrooms include Zinfandel, Shiraz, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon. The high tannin content and acidity of the red wine combine well with the meaty and salty taste of the pizza. The key is to select a light-bodied wine so as not to overpower the flavor of the pizza.
Sausage or Bacon and Most Wines
Both bacon and sausage go great with a sweet wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Canyon Oaks Zinfandel, Sweet Lucy Red, or Sweet Moscato. The spicy meat taste will blend well with the sweetness of the wine. However, the key is to sip the wine, as it will exude the pepper flavor of the sausage/bacon.
Tacos and Rosé
Tacos, with their vibrant and diverse flavors, call for a wine that can match their versatility. A dry, fruity rosé offers the perfect balance to the spice, acidity, and various flavors found in tacos. The wine's refreshing qualities and crisp acidity complement the richness of meat, the tanginess of salsa, and the creaminess of guacamole. Opt for a rosé with good acidity to cut through the richness of the dish.
Popcorn and Champagne
Think beyond the usual hors d'oeuvres and consider enjoying a glass of Champagne with your favorite bowl of popcorn. The effervescence and acidity of Champagne cut through the richness of buttered or lightly seasoned popcorn, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. The bubbles in Champagne also enhance the crunchy texture of the popcorn, making for a unique and enjoyable pairing.
Hot Dogs and Wine
A hot dog with relish, a thick layer of mustard, a scoop of spicy baked beans, and jalapenos served on a traditional soft white bun with fried onion toppings are best paired with Alsatian Pinot Blanc, Riesling, or a lighter, fruity red like Pinot Noir. These wines will reduce the spiciness, richness, and smoke, yet also bring out the flavors of the hot dog. If the jalapeños are spicy, then you need to cool the palate down with sparkling wine; choose either a Chardonnay, Chilean Merlot, or a Riesling.
Painting And Wine!
Art and wine have long been intertwined, both offering unique sensory experiences that ignite our senses and transport us to new realms of creativity and pleasure. Combining the world of painting with the world of wine creates a harmonious fusion, allowing us to explore the depths of artistic expression while tantalizing our taste buds.
JOIN US for a painting and wine class where you'll enjoy a glass of vino and paint a masterpiece in just 2-3 hours!
This is, in our opinion, is the VERY BEST pairing! :)
Share MORE Unique wine & food pairings | Join us for a painting class!