Best Wines to Pair with Seafood
Wine and seafood is always a popular choice. While it's not that difficult to pair wine with seafood, it's also not just a one-bottle-fits-all solution. Whether you're a fan of light and zesty whites that complement the freshness of oysters or you prefer bold reds to stand up to the richness of grilled salmon, there's a perfect match waiting for you.
Chardonnay: The Versatile White
Let's start with one of the most versatile white wines, Chardonnay. Its creamy texture and notes of citrus and oak make it an ideal pairing for a wide range of seafood dishes. Pair it with buttery lobster or crab, grilled shrimp skewers, or a classic shrimp scampi for a match made in culinary heaven.
Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and Refreshing
If you're craving something light and refreshing, reach for a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. With its zesty acidity and vibrant flavors of citrus and herbs, Sauvignon Blanc is a natural partner for seafood dishes like ceviche, grilled fish tacos, or oysters on the half shell. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of seafood, leaving your palate refreshed and invigorated.
Pinot Grigio: A Delicate Delight
For a wine that's as delicate and nuanced as the seafood itself, look no further than Pinot Grigio. With its crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavors, Pinot Grigio is the perfect accompaniment to lighter seafood dishes like grilled shrimp salad, seafood pasta with lemon and herbs, or steamed mussels in white wine broth. Its light body and refreshing finish make it an excellent choice for warm-weather dining.
Rosé: A Taste of Summer
Nothing says summer quite like a chilled glass of rosé wine paired with fresh seafood. With its delicate pink hue and vibrant fruit flavors, rosé is a versatile option that pairs well with a wide range of seafood dishes. Try it with a seafood paella, grilled salmon with mango salsa, or a seafood platter piled high with shrimp, crab, and oysters. Its crisp acidity and fruity notes are sure to complement the flavors of the sea.
Champagne: The Ultimate Indulgence
For a truly indulgent seafood experience, why not pop open a bottle of Champagne? With its effervescent bubbles and elegant flavors of citrus and toast, Champagne adds a touch of luxury to any seafood celebration. Pair it with decadent dishes like lobster thermidor, scallops with truffle butter, or caviar-topped oysters for a culinary experience fit for royalty.
What About Red Wine?
Most people assume you shouldn't drink red wine with seafood, but that's not entirely true. You can definitely enjoy red wines with seafood. It's best to avoid dishes that are lemon-based, and that have had lemon juice squeezed on top, and you should stick to reds with low tannins.
Below are some of our recommendations for red wine and seafood.
Salmon: Salmon's rich, oily texture and robust flavor make it an excellent match for light to medium-bodied red wines such as Pinot Noir or Grenache. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the fattiness of the fish while enhancing its natural flavors.
Tuna: Tuna's meaty texture and bold flavor can stand up to more full-bodied red wines like Syrah or Merlot. These wines offer enough tannins and structure to complement the richness of the fish without overpowering it.
Swordfish: Swordfish's firm texture and mild flavor make it a versatile pairing option. Lighter red wines such as Beaujolais or Dolcetto can complement the fish's meatiness while adding a touch of fruitiness to the dish.
Shellfish: While shellfish like lobster and crab are often paired with white wine, they can also be paired with lighter-bodied red wines such as Gamay or Barbera. These wines provide enough acidity to cut through the richness of the shellfish while adding a layer of complexity to the pairing.
Finding Your Perfect Pairing
When it comes to pairing wine with seafood, the key is to experiment and trust your palate. Whether you prefer a crisp white, a delicate rosé, or a luxurious Champagne, there's a wine out there to complement with your favorite seafood dish.
Contributed by Ray Ibanez, E-Commerce Manager for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.