February 18th is National Drink Wine Day! While you don’t need a holiday to indulge in a glass of your favorite wine, it certainly helps. From light, fruity whites to rich reds, no matter your favorite, we are here to share some of the best wine pairing ideas with you. After all, no meal is complete without a glass of wine to accompany it!
Wine Pairing Ideas for White Wines
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a fan favorite, as it is light and refreshing yet full of flavor. Because it’s so light, Pinot Grigio is the staple for pasta dishes that feature a light sauce. Additionally, if you’re having a delicious seafood dinner that features the flavors of shrimp and lemon, you’ll find that a glass of Pinot Grigio pairs nicely.
Sauvignon Blanc
Perhaps tonight’s menu calls for an Asian-style seafood dish like oysters or scallops featuring a garlicky flavor. Or, maybe you’ll be picking up takeout from your local Thai restaurant. If this is the case, you’ll want to grab a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc to tie the meal together!
Chardonnay
Buttery, creamy dishes featuring fish or poultry typically pair well with a glass of Chardonnay. Additionally, the sweeter flavors of corn, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash complement this white wine’s crisp flavor. Typically, it’s best to pair a Chardonnay with a mild dish that is simply prepared rather than a robust, heavily seasoned meal.
Wine Pairing Ideas for Red Wines
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that features flavors of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, along with a subtle spice. Beef tenderloin pairs well with Pinot Noir, as does pork loin. If you’re thinking of making a cheese board, be sure to feature Brie or goat cheese if Pinot Noir is your wine of choice for the evening.
Cabernet Sauvignon
For a fancy steak dinner, grab a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. While we typically think a juicy burger calls for an ice-cold beer, they actually pair well with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon as well! If you’re a vegetarian, portobello mushrooms are another tasty pairing option.
Merlot
Merlot is a smooth wine that features red fruits and a soft finish. Because of its unique flavor, it pairs well with a variety of foods. From a light meat like turkey to a lightly spiced dark meat, you simply can’t go wrong with a glass of Merlot. Additionally, this wine pairs well with roasted vegetables!
Whether you’re deciding on your dinner first and wine second or vise versa, these wine pairing ideas will help get the ball rolling. Red or white? Rich and smooth, or light and refreshing? The choice is yours! Cheers!
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