WLW Blog
Wine Pairings...Who knew it is really rather simple? Not I
When dining out first and foremost I recommend deciding on how much money you want to spend beforehand. It relieves some of the pressure when you're looking through the wine list, or wine book at certain places. Sometimes I think they make those wine lists so extensive to try and further intimidate us newbies. It's a good thing I'm not shy (a vast understatement) and usually ask for recommendations. Which brings me to my next tip: be friendly but honest with your server. If your budget for a bottle of wine is $30, why not say "I'm having the (some amazing dish) and my date is having (another amazing dish), what wine would you suggest that is around $30?" While this may seem unusual, it actually allows the staff to serve you best. Being direct is the way to go because it allows you to have the ultimate dining experience, at which you return by compensating the service staff accordingly. (Don't bit the hand that feeds you!)
When pairing wines it helps to think of wine like a condiment. Like ketchup makes Mac & Cheese taste better, wine makes food taste better. Thought I was going to say French Fries there, huh? Yes, I may have reached more people if I had gone that route but trust me for those out there who have enjoyed this killer combo, I hit the nail on the head.
Some people choose their wine first, and then choose food to go with it. Others choose wine to go with their food. Either way, the first thing you want to consider is balance. You don't want the wine to overpower the food, and you don't want the food to overpower the wine. Rule of thumb: Lighter foods tend to go better with white wines. While heavier foods go better with red wine. Nevertheless in restaurants I've ordered Cabernet Sauvignon with sushi and Chardonnay with tomato soup, so in the end there really are no rules. Just start with something you like then give a new combo a whirl. Let your creative (grape) juices flow... pun intended. And if you find yourself enjoying an uncommon pairing, please share with us. Let's see who's thinking outside the box.
Fail proof selection- Whitehall's 2004 Silver Anniversary Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, so smooth and accessible it will accompany any dish just beautifully. Added Bonus: The glass-on-glass closure is sure to impress your dining companion.
Posted by WLW on August 22, 2008 9:55 AM | Permalink
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