When it comes to wine, it’s always fun to try something different – you never know what you might discover
Do you have people staying with you over the Christmas holidays? Do you host neighbours, family and friends for a few drinks on St Stephen’s Day or New Year’s Eve?
To be a super host, you need to stay on top of trends and show that you’re not afraid to mix it up when it comes to your food and drink! With that in mind, we spoke to Fiona Whelan, Wine Buying Manager at Tesco Ireland, to get some recommendations for unconventional pairings.
What are some unconventional wine pairings you recommend?
Chardonnay with Popcorn: A buttery Chardonnay can pair surprisingly well with the salty, crunchy goodness of popcorn, making it a fun snack option. Some great options are:
A Pinot Noir with Salmon: While many pair salmon with white wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir can enhance the richness of the fish. I really like the:
Sparkling Wine with Fried Chicken. The bubbles and acidity in sparkling wine, like Amanti Prosecco Frizzante, can cut through the richness of fried foods, which makes for a really nice pairing and gives a feeling of comfort and luxury.
As we go into the winter months, do you have a go-to pairing that is underrated for comfort foods?
As winter approaches, many people switch to warmer red wines for that comforting feeling, which I personally love. However, there are winter-warming foods, like a classic chicken curry, that pair wonderfully with white wines, such as Riesling. Riesling, like Blaumeister Riesling, is particularly well-suited for spicier curries, as its sweetness helps balance the heat. The wine’s acidity also cuts through the richness of creamy coconut curries, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Offering a variety of wines invites guests to explore different combinations and discover their favourites! A cheese board featuring strong cheeses, such as blue cheese, pairs beautifully with a Sauternes or a Port. The Sauternes provides a nice contrast to the salty, tangy notes of blue cheese, while the rich, fortified Port complements the cheese’s bold flavours. While these wines can be polarising for everyday drinkers, a spicy Shiraz is a great compromise, offering depth without overwhelming the palate.
Do you have any suggestions for pairings with other strong cheeseboard flavours?
For feta, Ireland’s favourite grape – Sauvignon Blanc – is an excellent choice. Its bright acidity enhances the cheese’s saltiness, creating a refreshing balance. I like Tesco Finest Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Additionally, a Pinot Grigio like Oceans Edge Pinot Grigio is a safe and versatile option, as its light, crisp profile won’t overshadow the feta’s flavour.
Can you suggest some particular wines you rate which work well with unexpected foods?
One of my favourite wines at home is an Argentinian Malbec. Its versatility makes it perfect for the hearty foods I enjoy during the winter months, such as grilled meats, spicy dishes, aged cheeses, and, of course, my favourite – dark chocolate.
If you’re more of a white wine drinker, one of my favourites is a crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. Its bright acidity and vibrant fruit flavours make it a fantastic companion for lighter winter dishes. I love pairing it with roasted vegetables, citrusy seafood, or a creamy risotto. It also shines alongside sharp cheeses and fresh salads, providing a contrast that brightens up any meal. Plus, its versatility means it can easily transition from cosy dinners at home to festive gatherings with friends.
In general, how do you approach the task of matching wines with lesser traditional pairings?
Analyse the dominant flavours and textures of the dish, considering elements such as sweetness, acidity, saltiness, and spiciness. This helps identify wines that can either complement or contrast those flavours.
This may seem complicated and perhaps overwhelming for the everyday drinker just looking for a reliable pairing – if you don’t have the time or inclination for a tasting experiment and feel the dish is complex, a versatile choice like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir is likely to pair well with most meals. Some great options are:
- Mark West Pinot Noir 750Ml
- Journeys End Sheep Hill Sauvignon Blanc
- Tesco Finest Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 75Cl
- Tesco Finest Marlborough Pinot Noir 75Cl
What’s your advice in stepping outside your comfort zone when it comes to picking wine?
Food, Food, Food! Exploring food pairings can open up new flavour profiles. My love for red was cultivated through the tasting of cheese and wine pairings. When approaching new wines, try to keep an open mind. Sometimes, the most surprising pairings or varietals can become new favourites, if you give them a chance!
Always drink responsibly. See drinkaware.ie.
