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7 Popular Wines and Their Best Pairings

Wine pairing is a very delicate art and takes a refined palate to appreciate the nuances of flavor and finish that comes with each unique product. These flavor nuances can be brought out by specific food and meal pairings, heightening both the wine and the food. 

Below, we have put together a list of some good dishes to pair with 7 of the most popular wines that you may have in your home, waiting to be enjoyed.


1. Pinot Grigio 

This white wine is a delicate mix of flavors that typically includes notes of citrus and tropical fruits. It tends to have a lovely dry finish. As such, this will pair beautifully with seafood. 

For added robustness, consider making your seafood fresh with the best Maine lobster delivery available. Using this option for fresh lobster in your dish will give you the best results for a seafood meal that you can experience while still being convenient. 

2. Chardonnay 

Chardonnay is a smooth white wine, usually with a lovely semi-dry finish that can be enjoyed anytime. This wine is excellent for sipping when paired with sharp cheeses and fruits. 

During a meal, the flavors of chardonnay will also mix beautifully with chicken dishes made with white sauces. 

3. Rosé

The rosé is a refreshing mix of white and red wine with a perfectly balanced finish. This unique blend can vary based on the year and the original source for the grapes used. 

However, this steady wine usually has a note of sweetness to it that makes it wonderful for sipping and enjoying during a warm afternoon. You can pair this drink with any savory meal or with various cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or even a buttery brie. 

4. Pinot Noir 

Pinot noir is a classic red wine that typically has a medium-bodied flavor and a smooth finish. The tannins in a pinot noir will give it this smooth, almost silky texture. 

The intense earthy flavor typically includes notes of cherry and oak, depending on the nature of the barrel used for the aging process. This wine will mix well with tomato-based pasta dishes and red meats, especially rich and lean cuts of meat. 

5. Cabernet Sauvignon 

A glass of cabernet wine is a smooth, full-bodied, dry finish with flavorful hints of oak. The cabernet sauvignon is a rich deep red color that pairs excellently with marbled red meats. The flavors are also accented well by pasta dishes made with red tomato sauces. 

6. Merlot 

A glass of merlot can be expected to provide a deep and robust flavor with hints of fruit. This rich and dark red wine will give notes of plum, black cherry, and earthy herbal undertones. Merlot mixes well with most courses of a meal, especially with cheeses and savory dishes. 

7. Sherry 

Sherry is a unique, fortified wine with many different potential flavor profiles. A typical sweet cream sherry will provide a great burst of sweetness and robust intensity. 

This makes it an excellent dessert wine to pair with a sweet treat after a savory meal. Other varieties of sherry may yield a drink with a robust aroma and notes of nuts and spice in the finish. Most varieties can be enjoyed alone or paired with a sweet or light meal. 

Time to Sip 

The most general rule of thumb to remember when choosing your wine for your meal is the color scheme. Lightly colored meals, like white meats, seafood, or pasta with an Alfredo sauce, should be paired with white wine. Meanwhile, a dinner with red meat like steak or select pork cuts or a tomato-based sauce should be paired with a glass of red wine. If your bottle is very sweet, it is good with a sweet dessert after a savory meal. 

Start pairing and see which of your favorite dishes or wines suddenly has a new, exciting taste you've never imagined before. 


Note: This information was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the businesses in question before making your plans.

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