Wine Pairing Guide

Elevate Your Wine Tasting Experience.

Understanding the Basics of Wine and Food Pairing

Successful wine pairing hinges on balancing the flavors, textures, and weights of both the wine and the dish. Here are some foundational principles.

  • Match Intensity: Pair light-bodied wines with delicate dishes and full-bodied wines with hearty meals.

  • Complement or Contrast: Choose wines that either complement the flavors of your food or provide a pleasant contrast.

  • Consider Acidity and Tannins: High-acid wines pair well with fatty or rich foods, while tannic wines are balanced by protein-rich dishes.

Classic Pairings to Delight Your Palate

Explore these tried-and-true combinations:

 

  • Red Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal with grilled steaks, lamb chops, and aged cheeses. Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, mushrooms, and salmon.

 

  • White Wines: Chardonnay complements creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, and soft cheeses. Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavours of green salads, goat cheese, and seafood.

 

  • Rosé Wines: Versatile with grilled vegetables, light pasta dishes, and charcuterie boards.

 

  • Sparkling Wines: Perfect with fried foods, sushi, and light appetizers.

 

  • Dessert Wines: Pair with fruit tarts, blue cheeses, or enjoy as a dessert on their own.

Cheese and Wine: A Harmonious Duo

Cheese and wine are natural partners. Consider these pairings:

  • Brie or Camembert: Pair with Champagne or Chardonnay.

  • Aged Cheddar: Matches well with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

  • Goat Cheese: Complements Sauvignon Blanc or Chenin Blanc.

  • Blue Cheese: Balances with Port or Sauternes.

Sweet Endings: Wine with Desserts

Finish your meal on a high note:

  • Chocolate Desserts: Pair with Ruby Port or Zinfandel.

  • Fruit-Based Desserts: Match with Moscato d'Asti or Riesling.

  • Creamy Desserts: Complement with late-harvest wines or Ice wine.

Contact Us for Expert Advice

Enhance your culinary adventures with the perfect wine pairings from Corks London South.