What Does Red Wine Pair With

You've finally got your hands on that perfect bottle of red wine, but now what? What foods does red wine pair best with? We know that pairing wine with food can seem like a daunting task, but fear not! In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the beautiful world of red wine pairing to ensure you achieve that perfect harmony between your wine and your meal. So sit back, pour yourself a glass, and let's dive in!

The Basics of Red Wine Pairing

Before we move on to specific food pairings, let's first understand the basic principles of pairing red wine with food.

• Pair bold, tannic reds with fatty and richly flavored foods. The tannins will soften the fat, creating a smoother mouthfeel and enhancing the flavors of both the wine and the dish.
• Light and fruity reds work well with lighter dishes, like grilled chicken and fish.
• Wines with high acidity, such as Pinot Noir, complement dishes with tomato-based sauces or dishes with tangy flavors.

Red Wine Pairing by Varietal

Now that we have the basics covered, let's dive into different types of red wines and the foods they pair best with.

Cabernet Sauvignon

As a full-bodied red with bold tannins, Cabernet Sauvignon is a great match for hearty dishes like steak or roast lamb. The tannins in the wine help break down the protein and fat in the meat, making the pairing truly delectable.

Pinot Noir

This light-to-medium-bodied red wine has a fruity and earthy profile with high acidity. Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes that feature mushrooms, like a creamy mushroom risotto or mushroom stroganoff.

Merlot

A versatile wine, Merlot can be both fruity and rich, making it perfect for a wide range of dishes. Pair it with juicy burgers, roast chicken, or even a wood-fired pizza for a scrumptious meal.

Zinfandel

A bold, high-alcohol wine, Zinfandel is perfect for pairing with barbecue dishes like pulled pork sandwiches or grilled sausages. The smoky and spicy flavors found in the food complement the fruity notes of the Zinfandel.

Malbec

Known for its dark fruit flavors and smooth finish, Malbec pairs well with grilled meats like steak and lamb, as well as dishes that feature bold spices such as Tex-Mex cuisine or Indian curry.

What Does Red Wine Pair With Example:

To put red wine pairing into practice, let's say you've chosen a beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon for dinner. Plan a meal featuring a juicy ribeye steak, rosemary-garlic roasted potatoes, and a green salad with blue cheese crumbles. The fatty, rich flavors of the ribeye will soften the tannins in the wine, allowing you to appreciate the wine's fruity notes and full-bodied character. The rosemary-garlic potatoes and bold flavor of the blue cheese also pair well with the wine's rich, intense flavors.

We hope this guide has given you the confidence to create unforgettable meals featuring incredible red wine pairings! Remember, the key to successful wine and food pairing is experimenting to find what excites your palate, so don't be afraid to get creative. Share this guide with your fellow wine enthusiasts and explore other amazing articles on Black Wine Club to continue your journey into the enchanting world of wine and food.