Pairing Food and Wine

Golden Rule: Always remember that food and wine pairings are ultimately about enhancing separate elements that when brought together are even more enjoyable. So experiment and try lots of combinations to see what pleases your palate!

• Match acid in food with acid in wine, this decreases the perception of high acidity
  example:Tomato Sauce with a Chiant

• Match acid in wine with salt in food, it decreases the salt flavour

• Acid in wine with fatty foods, the flavours of the wine are heightened and the acid acts as a palate cleanser

• Match tannin in wine with protein or fat in food, the proteins prevent dry mouth which is caused by the tannins.

• Match sweetness with sweetness, some wine steals the sweetness from the food and it is not as enjoyable.

• Match the weight of the food with the weight of the wine
  ie. Riesling with Sushi or Cabernet with Peppercorn Steak

• Compare or contrast flavours ie Buttery Chardonnay with a Creamy Chicken Alfredo becomes doubly rich, whereas trying the same pasta with an unoaked Chardonnay will amplify the crisp fruit notes in the wine.

Wine & Food Pairing Chart

A basic food & wine pairing chart. Don't be afraid to try your own combinations!