A great dinner deserves a wine that enhances the flavors of the dish and completes the moment. But with so many choices, it can be hard to find the perfect bottle. Whether you’re hosting a simple meal or a lavish dinner, here are some tips for choosing the right wine.
Match the wine to the dish
The golden rule in wine-food pairings is to seek balance. The flavours of the wine and the dish should complement each other, not overpower each other. Here are some guidelines:
- For light dishes, such as fish or salad: Choose a fresh white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Vermentino, with their beautiful balance, vibrant acidity, and subtle fruit notes.
- With poultry or creamy dishes: A more subtle, lighter red wine, such as a light Burgundy or a Nebbiolo from Carema or Boca, pairs perfectly. For creamy sauces, a full-bodied Chardonnay is an excellent choice.
- Red meats match perfectly with a Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino, but can go with a wide range of flavourful red wines.
- With stews: Go for a powerful red wine such as a Gigondas or Barolo. These wines have rich, complex flavours that go well with more intense dishes.
- With desserts: Choose a sweet wine, like a Muscat or a lightly sparkling Moscato d'Asti, to end the dinner.
Keep your guests in mind.
A good dinner deserves a wine that enhances the flavors of the dish and completes the moment. But with so many choices, finding the perfect bottle can be challenging. Whether you're hosting a simple meal or an elaborate dinner, here are some tips to help you choose the right wine.
The season plays a role
The season can also be an important factor in choosing wine. In the summer, lighter wines such as rosé or white wines are refreshing, while in the winter, fuller red wines such as a Barolo or a Bourgogne from the Côte de Nuits are more popular.
Ask for advice
At Leuvin we are happy to help you choose the right wine. Our range contains carefully selected wines from renowned wineries, and we offer personal advice to find the perfect bottle to match your dinner.
The right wine can take a meal to the next level. Take your time to make a suitable choice and enjoy the harmony between wine and food. Don't overdo it either, it's not an exact science and from experience I know that your favorite wine surprisingly often goes with different dishes...
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