What Wine goes with What Food? We asked the experts and here's what they said...
"...Red with Red and White with Light is no longer the hard and fast, wining and dining rule."
In this new century where wine selection plays such a significant role in dining - more so than any past American century - it is important to understand the wine and food relationship when dining out or entertaining in.
When you envision an evening of wining and dining with friends, it is easy to recall images of cork-sniffing, swirling, and tasting before accepting the grape on behalf of your dinner guests. But experts say that process is now taboo, as the cork is often tainted disguising the true characteristics of the wine's bouquet, and the traditional hasty-taste does not allow the wine to breathe, thus masking its true palatable distinction.
Instead, we are to slowly swirl the wine to observe its color, followed by a sniff to determine a fruity bouquet versus a vinegary or acidic aroma. You may taste if you wish, but the wine's appearance and bouquet are enough to determine your satisfaction with the wine selection.
For those who are just entering the world of wine it is good to keep in mind that wine advice is a service provided at the restaurant where you dine. You should always feel comfortable asking your server what wine would go well with your entrée choices. A good menu will offer wine suggestions to complement each entrée, and a good wine list will include a description of the wine's characteristics.
Generally speaking, your wine should boast the same characteristics as your entrée - a light fish or poultry dish would go well with a light wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Chablis, as well as a mild Pinot Noir or a delicate Merlot. Your heavier red meats and richer foods go better with more robust wines such as a Burgundy or Cabernet Sauvignon. Spicy and sweet foods generally go well with sweet wines, and acidic foods with acidic wines. The key is to find a balance between the wine and food, so that neither overpowers the other.
As with any skill, practice makes perfect and you will soon be knowledgeable enough to order a wine that complements your meal and delights even your most discerning guest.
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