Pairing Wine ~ Pairing foods with wines can be a delightful experience
Pairing
Pairing foods with wines can be a delightful experience, reading the labels on wine bottles takes one on an exotic journey of 'palate' and 'nose' that one never knew existed inside a bottle of plonk. There are also suggestions of food pairing on the labels. Here are some general guidelines on which foods go well with different types of wines:Red Wines:
Shiraz (Syrah): Pairs with red meats, grilled dishes, and spicy cuisine.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Ideal for hearty, red meat-based dishes like steaks and roasts.
Merlot: Complements a range of dishes, from pasta to poultry and grilled meats.
White Wines:
Chardonnay: Pairs nicely with poultry, seafood, and dishes with creamy sauces.
Sauvignon Blanc: Complements light and fresh dishes, such as salads and seafood.
Riesling: Goes well with spicy foods and dishes with a touch of sweetness.
Pinot Grigio: Matches with lighter fare, like salads, seafood, and vegetarian dishes.
Rosé Wine:
Rosé: A versatile wine that pairs with a variety of foods, including salads, seafood, and lighter meats.
Sparkling Wines:
Champagne: Goes well with appetisers, seafood, and light, delicate dishes.
When pairing, consider the flavours and intensity of both the wine and the food. Be mindful of wine serving temperatures (e.g., white wines at around 8-12°C and red wines at around 16-18°C) and portion sizes. Experiment and enjoy finding your own perfect combinations. There is a more intense look at wines, Australian of course, presented below.
Wines
Red Wine
Shiraz (Syrah)
Shiraz, known as Syrah in some parts of the world, is a bold and full-bodied red wine variety that pairs wonderfully with red meats, grilled dishes, and spicy cuisine. When enjoying a glass of Shiraz, ensure it's served at a temperature of approximately 16-18°C. The robust flavours and dark fruit notes in Shiraz harmonise beautifully with red meats such as beef or lamb. Grilled steaks and roasts, prepared with a perfect sear, are excellent choices to accompany this wine. Additionally, Shiraz's peppery and spicy undertones make it a remarkable partner for dishes with a bit of heat, such as spicy barbecue, chilli, or even a rich, peppery stew.Australia is renowned for producing exceptional Shiraz wines, and it's one of the country's signature grape varieties. Here are a few examples of Australian Shiraz wines from various regions:
Penfolds Grange Shiraz: Hailing from South Australia, Penfolds Grange is one of Australia's most prestigious and sought-after Shiraz wines. It's known for its rich, full-bodied character and exceptional ageing potential.
Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz: Another South Australian gem, the Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz is a single-vineyard wine from the Eden Valley. It's celebrated for its complex flavours and elegant structure.
Torbreck The Laird Shiraz: Also from South Australia's Barossa Valley, Torbreck's The Laird is a highly regarded Shiraz that exhibits intensity and depth, often with a focus on old-vine fruit.
d'Arenberg The Dead Arm Shiraz: This McLaren Vale Shiraz is known for its bold and powerful fruit character, often with a touch of spice and complexity.
Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier: Hailing from the Canberra District in New South Wales, Clonakilla produces a Shiraz Viognier blend that's celebrated for its elegance and perfume-like qualities.
Mollydooker Carnival of Love Shiraz: A McLaren Vale favourite, Mollydooker's Carnival of Love is known for its bold and fruit-forward style, with a touch of sweetness and a velvety texture.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated for its bold and structured character, making it ideal for hearty, red meat-based dishes like steaks and roasts. It's recommended to serve Cabernet Sauvignon at around 16-18°C to fully appreciate its complex flavours. This wine's dark berry and cassis notes pair beautifully with red meat cuts, creating a marriage of flavours. Whether you're savouring a perfectly grilled rib-eye steak or indulging in a tender roast with herbs and spices, Cabernet Sauvignon's tannins and depth complement the richness of the meat, resulting in a memorable dining experience.Australia is known for producing excellent Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Here are some Australian examples of Cabernet Sauvignon wines from various regions:
Penfolds Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon: This iconic South Australian wine is often considered one of Australia's finest Cabernet Sauvignons. It's known for its deep and complex flavours, often with a focus on dark fruit, spice, and structure.
Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon: Hailing from the Margaret River region in Western Australia, Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated for its elegance, balance, and ageing potential. It's a classic example of Western Australian Cabernet.
Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon: Another outstanding Cabernet from Margaret River, this wine is known for its harmony of fruit, oak, and tannin, creating a wine of exceptional quality.
Voyager Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: Also from Margaret River, Voyager Estate produces Cabernet Sauvignon wines that often display a fine balance of ripe fruit and structure, with a focus on elegance.
Cullen Diana Madeline Cabernet Sauvignon: This Cabernet Sauvignon from the Margaret River region is famous for its biodynamic and organic farming practices, resulting in a wine with complexity and finesse.
Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: From the Coonawarra region in South Australia, this wine often showcases the classic Cabernet Sauvignon characteristics of blackcurrant, eucalyptus, and structure.
Merlot
Merlot is known for its approachable and medium-bodied nature, making it a versatile choice that complements a range of dishes. To fully enjoy Merlot, serve it at around 16-18°C. This wine's soft tannins and red fruit notes make it a great companion for various meals. It pairs well with pasta dishes, whether it's a classic spaghetti Bolognese or a creamy mushroom fettuccine. Merlot also complements poultry, like roasted chicken or turkey, enhancing the flavours without overpowering them. Grilled meats, such as pork chops or even burgers, benefit from the wine's pleasant and rounded profile, making it an excellent choice for casual, everyday dining.Australia produces some delightful Merlot wines, often characterised by their approachable and fruit-forward qualities. Here are a few examples of Australian Merlot wines from various regions:
Yalumba The Y Series Merlot: This South Australian Merlot from the Barossa Valley offers a soft and velvety texture with red fruit flavours and a touch of spice.
Tyrrell's Wines Old Winery Merlot: Hailing from the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, this Merlot is known for its medium body, plummy character, and supple tannins.
Katnook Estate Merlot: Produced in Coonawarra, South Australia, Katnook Estate's Merlot often displays dark fruit flavours, a hint of chocolate, and a smooth, easy-drinking style.
Vasse Felix Filius Merlot: From the Margaret River region in Western Australia, this Merlot offers a balance of red and dark fruit notes with a silky texture, making it an approachable choice.
Henschke Johann's Garden Merlot: Another South Australian gem, this Merlot from the Eden Valley is celebrated for its elegance and finesse, often showcasing raspberry and violet aromas.
De Bortoli Gulf Station Merlot: Produced in Victoria's Yarra Valley, this Merlot is known for its vibrant red fruit flavours and a touch of spice, making it an excellent option for pairing with various dishes.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile white wine that offers a range of flavours, from crisp and refreshing to rich and buttery, depending on its style. It pairs nicely with poultry, seafood, and dishes with creamy sauces. When enjoying a glass of Chardonnay with your meal, consider serving it chilled at around 8-12°C. The crisp acidity in Chardonnay can beautifully complement the tenderness of roasted chicken, making it an ideal companion for a classic roast chicken dinner. Additionally, its buttery notes harmonise with the creamy textures of dishes like chicken Alfredo or seafood in a velvety sauce. Whether you're savouring a grilled fillet of salmon or indulging in a plate of lobster bisque, Chardonnay's versatility allows it to be a delightful pairing partner.Australia produces a wide variety of Chardonnay wines, each with its unique characteristics based on the region and wine-making techniques. Here are some Australian Chardonnay examples from different regions:
Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay: Hailing from Margaret River in Western Australia, this wine is renowned for its rich and complex flavours, often with a focus on citrus, stone fruit, and well-integrated oak.
Tyrrell's Vat 47 Chardonnay: Produced in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, this Chardonnay is known for its elegance, with a focus on white peach, citrus, and a vibrant acidity.
Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay: This South Australian Chardonnay is often associated with Adelaide Hills. It offers a balance of fresh fruit and a touch of oak, creating a wine of great finesse and complexity.
Shaw & Smith M3 Chardonnay: Another exceptional Adelaide Hills Chardonnay, Shaw & Smith's M3 is celebrated for its vibrant acidity, citrus notes, and a mineral edge, showcasing the region's cool climate.
Voyager Estate Chardonnay: From Margaret River, this Chardonnay is known for its pristine fruit, elegance, and a balance between citrus and stone fruit flavours, often with subtle oak influence.
Oakridge 864 Chardonnay: Hailing from the Yarra Valley in Victoria, Oakridge produces Chardonnays with a focus on precision, showcasing a range of citrus, floral, and mineral notes.
White wines
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is celebrated for its zesty and vibrant character, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a refreshing pairing. It complements light and fresh dishes, such as salads and seafood, beautifully. Ensure that your Sauvignon Blanc is served at a cool temperature of about 8-12°C to fully appreciate its crisp acidity and aromatic qualities. This wine's citrusy and grassy notes are a superb match for salads with vinaigrette dressings, enhancing the salad's flavours and providing a delightful contrast. When enjoying a seafood platter with prawns, oysters, and freshly caught fish, Sauvignon Blanc's bright acidity can cut through the brininess and elevate the entire experience.Australia is known for producing vibrant Sauvignon Blanc wines, often with a focus on citrus and tropical fruit flavours. Here are some Australian Sauvignon Blanc examples from different regions:
Shaw & Smith Sauvignon Blanc: Hailing from the Adelaide Hills in South Australia, Shaw & Smith's Sauvignon Blanc is celebrated for its crisp acidity, lively citrus notes, and hints of herbaceousness.
Vasse Felix Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon: From the Margaret River region in Western Australia, this wine blends Sauvignon Blanc with Semillon, offering a balance of citrus, grassy, and tropical fruit characters.
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc: Although Cloudy Bay is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, they also produce a Sauvignon Blanc from Tumbarumba in New South Wales. It typically showcases zesty citrus and passionfruit notes.
Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon: Another Western Australian gem, Cape Mentelle's blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon often features bright citrus and herbaceous qualities, making it a refreshing choice.
Grosset Piccadilly Sauvignon Blanc: From the Piccadilly Valley in South Australia's Adelaide Hills, Grosset's Sauvignon Blanc is known for its vibrant acidity and a focus on citrus and gooseberry flavours.
O'Leary Walker Polish Hill River Sauvignon Blanc: Produced in the Clare Valley, South Australia, this Sauvignon Blanc often exhibits intense citrus and herbal notes with a crisp and refreshing profile.
Riesling
Riesling is known for its aromatic profile and the ability to beautifully balance sweet and spicy elements. It goes well with spicy foods and dishes with a touch of sweetness. Serving Riesling chilled at around 8-12°C is essential to appreciate its aromatic complexity. The inherent sweetness in Riesling can harmonise with spicy dishes, making it an ideal choice for cuisines like Thai or Indian, where the sweetness in the wine can cool down the heat of the spices. Furthermore, the crisp acidity in Riesling complements dishes that have a touch of sweetness, such as glazed ham or peach-glazed chicken, creating a harmonious flavour combination.Australia is well-known for producing exceptional Riesling wines, often characterised by their vibrant acidity and citrus and floral notes. Here are some Australian Riesling examples from different regions:
Grosset Polish Hill Riesling: From the Clare Valley in South Australia, this Riesling is celebrated for its purity, intense lime and floral aromas, and racy acidity.
Henschke Julius Riesling: This wine hails from the Eden Valley in South Australia and often exhibits a balance of citrus and mineral notes, with a firm structure and great ageing potential.
Leeuwin Estate Art Series Riesling: While Margaret River is more famous for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, this Riesling offers citrus and floral aromatics with a crisp and refreshing profile.
Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling: From the cool climate of Tasmania, this Riesling is known for its purity, green apple notes, and a wonderful sense of place.
Howard Park Riesling: From the Great Southern region in Western Australia, Howard Park's Riesling often features zesty citrus and mineral characteristics, showcasing the region's cool climate.
Jim Barry Watervale Riesling: This wine from the Clare Valley is celebrated for its zippy acidity, lime, and floral aromas, making it a classic example of Australian Riesling.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a light and crisp white wine that matches with lighter fare, like salads, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. To fully enjoy its refreshing qualities, serve Pinot Grigio at a temperature of about 8-12°C. Its light, citrusy and green apple notes make it a delightful accompaniment to a variety of salads, from simple garden salads to more complex options with goat cheese and nuts. When it comes to seafood, dishes like grilled shrimp or lemon-buttered cod can be elevated by the clean and fresh taste of Pinot Grigio. Vegetarian meals, such as vegetable stir-fry or pasta primavera, also benefit from the wine's bright acidity and crisp finish, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer lighter, plant-based dishes.Australia produces Pinot Grigio wines, which are often characterized by their crisp and refreshing qualities. Here are some Australian examples of Pinot Grigio:
Brown Brothers Pinot Grigio: Produced in Victoria, Brown Brothers' Pinot Grigio is celebrated for its fresh and bright fruit flavours, often with notes of pear and citrus.
T'Gallant Juliet Pinot Grigio: Hailing from the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, this Pinot Grigio showcases a crisp and lively character, with a focus on apple and citrus notes.
Dal Zotto Pinot Grigio: The King Valley in Victoria is known for producing some excellent Pinot Grigio wines. Dal Zotto's version typically exhibits vibrant acidity, green apple, and a clean, refreshing finish.
Yalumba Y Series Pinot Grigio: This South Australian wine from the Barossa Valley offers a balance of fruit and acidity, often featuring flavours of pear and green apple.
De Bortoli La Bohème Act Three Pinot Grigio: Also from Victoria's Yarra Valley, this Pinot Grigio is known for its bright and zesty character, with notes of pear and citrus.
Josef Chromy Pinot Grigio: The cool climate of Tasmania influences this wine, often leading to a crisp and refreshing style with citrus and green fruit notes.
Rosé Wine
Rosé is a versatile wine with a wide spectrum of flavours and styles, making it an ideal choice for pairing with a variety of foods. It can be served chilled at around 8-12°C. Rosé's versatility shines when it comes to food pairing. It complements salads beautifully, especially those with a light and refreshing character. The wine's subtle fruit notes and acidity enhance the crispness of the salad, creating a delightful combination. Rosé is also an excellent match for seafood dishes, as its delicate flavours can harmonise with the nuanced flavours of fish, prawns, or oysters. Furthermore, Rosé's light to medium body makes it a fantastic companion for lighter meats, such as grilled chicken or pork tenderloin. Whether you're dining al fresco or having a casual dinner, Rosé's adaptability ensures it can enhance a wide range of dishes, making it a go-to choice for many occasions.Australia produces a diverse range of Rosé wines with a focus on bright and refreshing. Here are some Australian examples of Rosé wines:
Bird in Hand Pinot Noir Rosé: Hailing from the Adelaide Hills in South Australia, this Rosé typically features delicate red fruit notes, a vibrant acidity, and a refreshing finish.
Petaluma Rosé: Also from the Adelaide Hills, Petaluma's Rosé is known for its elegance, with a focus on red berry flavours and a crisp, dry profile.
Vasse Felix Premier Rosé: From the Margaret River region in Western Australia, Vasse Felix produces a Rosé with a balance of red fruit notes and a refreshing, zesty character.
d'Arenberg Stephanie the Gnome with Rose Tinted Glasses Rosé: Produced in McLaren Vale, South Australia, this Rosé often showcases bright red fruit flavours and a hint of spice, creating a lively and playful wine.
Yalumba The Y Series Sangiovese Rosé: This South Australian wine from the Barossa Valley blends Sangiovese to create a Rosé with a focus on cherry and berry notes and a lively acidity.
Josef Chromy Pinot Noir Rosé: The cool climate of Tasmania influences this wine, often resulting in a Rosé with vibrant red fruit flavours and a refreshing finish.
Champagne
In Australia, sparkling wine produced in the Champagne style is generally referred to as "sparkling wine" or "Australian sparkling wine." The term "Champagne" is reserved for sparkling wine that originates from the Champagne region in France. This is in line with international agreements that protect the use of the term "Champagne" for wines produced specifically in that region.So, in Australia, you would typically call a sparkling wine made in the Champagne style by its grape variety or production region, or simply refer to it as "sparkling wine" or "Australian sparkling wine." For example, you might say "Australian sparkling Chardonnay" or "Tasmanian sparkling wine" to describe a sparkling wine made in Australia using the traditional method.
Champagne, a sparkling wine that hails from the Champagne region of France, is a luxurious and celebratory beverage that pairs exceptionally well with various foods. It's often served chilled at a temperature of about 8-12°C. Champagne's effervescence and bright acidity make it an excellent choice to start a meal, making it a classic pairing with appetisers. The bubbles in Champagne cleanse the palate and prepare it for the upcoming courses.
Seafood, with its delicate flavours and brininess, is a classic partner for Champagne. Fresh oysters, lobster, or a seafood platter are elevated by the wine's crisp and refreshing qualities. Additionally, Champagne complements light, delicate dishes like sushi, sashimi, and dishes with subtle flavours, enhancing the dining experience with its elegance and finesse. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious meal, Champagne's versatility and sophistication make it a splendid choice for a wide range of dishes.
Australia is known for producing excellent sparkling wines. Australian sparkling wines offer a wide variety of styles. Here are some examples of sparkling wines:
Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvée: Hailing from the cool climate of Tasmania, Jansz is known for its elegant sparkling wines, often with citrus and apple notes, and is made using the traditional method.
Seppelt Original Sparkling Shiraz: Produced in Victoria, this sparkling wine offers a unique Australian twist, with bold red fruit and spice notes, making it a great choice for celebrations.
Yellowglen Vintage Bella: Yellowglen is a well-known Australian producer of sparkling wines. The Vintage Bella often showcases fresh and lively fruit characteristics, perfect for casual celebrations.
Chandon Brut: From the Yarra Valley in Victoria, Chandon is part of the famous Moët Chandon Champagne house. Chandon Brut offers a fresh and crisp sparkling wine with apple and citrus notes.
Croser Premium Cuvée: Hailing from the Adelaide Hills in South Australia, Croser is celebrated for its elegance and sophistication, often with citrus and brioche notes.
De Bortoli King Valley Prosecco: Although not a traditional Champagne-style sparkling wine, Prosecco has gained popularity in Australia. De Bortoli's Prosecco is known for its refreshing and vibrant fruit character, often with green apple and pear notes.
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