Seafood and Wine Pairing

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Published on Thursday, 23 February 2023 09:12

Last Updated on 23 February 2023

Monica Costa

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Seafood and wine pairing is a classic culinary combination that has been enjoyed for centuries. There is nothing quite like the taste of a perfectly cooked seafood dish paired with the right wine. Whether it’s a light white wine or a full-bodied red, the right pairing can elevate the flavours of both the seafood and the wine. In this article, we will explore the best seafood and wine pairings to help you make the most of your next meal.

 

White Wine Pairings

When it comes to seafood, white wine is the go-to choice for many people. The lightness and acidity of wine make it a perfect complement to the delicate flavours of seafood. Here are some of the best white wine pairings for seafood:

Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine is a perfect match for seafood like oysters, mussels, and clams. Its bright acidity and herbaceous notes complement the briny flavours of these shellfish.

Pinot Grigio: This Italian white wine is light, refreshing, and perfect for pairing with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or scallops. Its subtle citrus notes and bright acidity balance the richness of the seafood.

Chardonnay: This popular white wine has a creamy texture that pairs well with rich seafood dishes like lobster or crab. The oakiness of a Chardonnay can add complexity to the dish and bring out the flavours of the seafood.

 

Red Wine Pairings

When it comes to pairing wine with seafood, many people think of white wines as the natural choice. However, it is possible to pair red wines with seafood as well, including red Italian wines.

Red Italian wines are often rich and full-bodied, with flavours that can pair well with certain seafood dishes. Here are some tips for pairing red Italian wines with seafood:

• Pair with oily fish

Red Italian wines such as Querciabella Chianti Classico 2019 or Barbera d’Asti can pair well with oily fish such as salmon or tuna. The richness of the wine can complement the oiliness of the fish, while the acidity in the wine can cut through the richness of the dish.

• Pair with tomato-based seafood dishes

Tomato-based seafood dishes such as seafood pasta or seafood stew can be paired with red Italian wines such as Sangiovese or Nebbiolo. The acidity in the tomato-based sauce can complement the tannins in the wine, creating a balance of flavours.

• Consider lighter-bodied red Italian wines

If you want to pair a red Italian wine with a lighter seafood dish, consider a lighter-bodied red such as Ferragu Valpolicella Superiore 2018. These wines have a more delicate flavour profile that can complement the lightness of the seafood.

• Pair with grilled seafood

Grilled seafood can pair well with red Italian wines such as Montepulciano d’Abruzzo or Nero d’Avola. The smoky flavours of the grilled seafood can complement the bold flavours of the wine, creating a harmonious pairing.

• Consider the sauce

As with any wine pairing, it is important to consider the sauce that accompanies the seafood. Red Italian wines such as Chianti or Barolo can pair well with seafood in a tomato-based sauce, while wines such as Barbera d’Asti or Nebbiolo can pair well with seafood in a cream or butter sauce.

When pairing red Italian wines with seafood, it is important to remember that the wine should complement the flavours of the dish, rather than overpowering it. It is also important to consider the cooking method and sauce, as these factors can have a significant impact on the wine pairing.

In conclusion, pairing wine with seafood is all about balance. The right wine can enhance the flavours of the seafood and provide a more enjoyable dining experience. By following these tips and experimenting with different pairings, you can find the perfect wine to complement your favourite seafood dish.