As many of you know, one of the biggest trends in the restaurant business is fast, casual dining with upscale comfort food. Whether it’s a re-invention of one of Grandma’s home-baked entrees or a de-constructed hot dish, this “trend train” is all but going away. That means a more unique approach to wine pairing is essential to enhancing the right flavors and keeping you on the track with what’s currently trending.
These two wines have been used mostly in blends, however, wineries are now releasing them as single varietals. They are brighter and more acidic than Cabernets, and will lighten up the richness of comfort food. They also couple perfectly with the common use of cream and bitter greens in southern cooking.
Rosé wines pair very well with a wider variety of meats. Charcuterie, seafood, chicken pork, and veal are all enhanced by a lightly chilled rosé. Meanwhile, a lightly sweet Riesling will complement Asian/Fusion cuisine and smoked fish. Sweet and very sweet Rieslings enhance spicy Indian dishes and sweet tropical dishes that contain fresh fruits. Moscato wines heighten the flavors of Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. There is nothing like a chilled, fruity Moscato to enrich the spicy heat of a curry.
The farm-to-table movement has taken off big with many dishes focused on fresh produce. In fact, the trend of where the food comes from sometimes has become more important than how it tastes. Two wines that work well with this type of fare are the Austrian Grüner Veltliner which is light and zesty, or the Spanish Verdejo, which is crisp and refreshing with just a hint of minerality.
No matter which “foodie train” you may be on, there is always a perfect wine pairing. The most important thing is that you enjoy the flavors you are receiving. Pairing may be an art, but discovery and enjoyment are the keys to locomotive. Just enjoy the ride!
Christine Iannelli is the Wine Director at Grand View Lodge. She previously managed their wine restaurant, Cru, for four years and came from the Ritz Carlton in South Beach, FL. Christine organizes and runs all tastings, wine dinners, ordering, and is event coordinator for Grand View’s Culinary and Wine Event each February.
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