White wine is a popular drink that comes in many varieties and goes well with a variety of foods. Pairing the right food with the right white wine can enhance the flavors of both the wine and the food. In this article, we will explore different types of white wine and what foods to pair them with.
When it comes to pairing wine with food, there are a few general rules to follow. White wine, for instance, tends to pair well with lighter dishes, especially those that feature seafood, cheese, or vegetables. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of what to eat with white wine, offering up some ideas and inspiration for your next dinner party or wine tasting event. From classic pairings to more unique flavor combinations, we hope to help you find the perfect match for your favorite white wines.
Types of White Wine
White wine can be divided into many categories, but some of the most common types include:
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a full-bodied white wine that is generally oaked. It has a rich and buttery flavor and pairs well with seafood, poultry, and creamy sauces.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a light-bodied and refreshing white wine that has a crisp and acidic taste. It is best paired with light seafood, salads, and cheeses.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a light-bodied white wine that has a fresh and zesty flavor. It pairs well with light seafood, salads, and grilled vegetables.
Riesling
Riesling is a sweet white wine that has a fruity and floral flavor. It pairs well with spicy foods, Asian cuisine, and desserts.
Moscato
Moscato is a sweet white wine that has a fruity and floral flavor. It pairs well with desserts and spicy foods.
Pairing White Wine with Food
Pairing white wine with food can be tricky, but there are some general rules you can follow to ensure that you have a great pairing.
Pairing with Seafood
White wine is an excellent pairing for seafood. The acidity in the wine helps to cut through the richness of the fish. Chardonnay pairs well with salmon, scallops, and lobster, while Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for oysters, shrimp, and clams. Pinot Grigio pairs well with white fish, crab, and sushi.
Pairing with Poultry
White wine is also an excellent pairing for poultry. Chardonnay pairs well with chicken, turkey, and duck, while Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for chicken and turkey salads. Pinot Grigio pairs well with grilled chicken and turkey burgers.
Pairing with Vegetables
White wine pairs well with grilled vegetables, salads, and light vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for grilled vegetables and Caesar salads, while Pinot Grigio pairs well with grilled vegetables and Greek salad.
Pairing with Cheese
White wine is an excellent pairing for cheese. Chardonnay pairs well with creamy cheeses like Brie and Camembert, while Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for goat cheese and feta. Pinot Grigio pairs well with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Pairing with Desserts
White wine pairs well with desserts that are not too sweet. Riesling and Moscato are perfect for pairing with fruity desserts like apple pie and peach cobbler. They also pair well with spicy desserts like gingerbread and pumpkin pie.
FAQs: What to Eat with White Wine
What types of food pair well with white wine?
White wine is a versatile beverage, and there are many types of food that pair well with it. Generally, white wine pairs well with seafood, shellfish, chicken, and creamy pasta dishes. Light, crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio are a great match for lighter dishes like salads, antipasto dishes, and raw vegetables. Richer white wines, like Chardonnay, pair well with heartier dishes like grilled fish, roasted chicken, and pasta with cream sauce.
Can white wine be paired with spicy foods?
Yes, white wine can be a great match for spicy foods. The bright acidity of a white wine can help to balance the heat of spicy cuisine. Light, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc are a good option for pairing with spicy foods because they won’t overwhelm the dish with too much richness or complexity. Off-dry white wines, such as Riesling, can also work well with spicy dishes because their sweetness can help to cool the heat of the dish.
Are there specific white wines that pair well with cheese?
Yes, there are certain white wines that pair particularly well with different types of cheese. For instance, Chardonnay is a classic pairing for soft, creamy cheeses like brie and camembert. Sauvignon Blanc is a good pairing for sharp, salty cheeses like goat cheese and feta. And, Riesling is an excellent match for spicy, pungent cheeses like blue cheese and gorgonzola.
Can white wine be paired with desserts?
Yes, white wine can be a great pairing for desserts. Sweeter white wines like Moscato and late-harvest Riesling are a wonderful match for fruit-based desserts like apple pies, peach tarts, and berry crumbles. Off-dry white wines like Gewurztraminer can also work well with rich, creamy desserts like cheesecake and crème brûlée. The key is to ensure that the wine is sweeter than the dessert – this will help to balance the flavors and prevent the wine from tasting overly acidic.