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table of contentsWho doesn't crave a good red wine? red wine with a filet mignon? Or a white wine with a fish fillet? Well, to know which wine goes with which food is that sommeliers have experience on pairing to effectively select which wine is ideal to accompany a dish.
At Vinícola El Cielo we are experts in the creation of wines, and our team of sommeliers has the experience and knowledge to recommend a wine to accompany your food.
This is why, taking advantage of the harvest season harvest we want to share with you what is wine pairing and its characteristics; so if you are interested in learning more about this topic, continue reading.
What is wine pairing?
The pairing is the term derived from "marriage" and is known as the practice of combining food and beverages to highlight and complement the flavors and characteristics of both. It is about finding harmonies or contrasts between the different taste and aromatic components of food and beverages.
However, wine pairing is not exclusive to wines; beer, distilled beverages and other options are also contemplated to achieve a more pleasant and balanced gastronomic experience.
Popularly, wine pairing refers to the harmonization of wines with specific dishes, for example, to find a Mexican Mexican wine to accompany a grilled meat.
What is the purpose of the pairing?
Pairing seeks to create synergies between the flavors, textures and aromas of food and beverages, as experts seek that none of the elements dominate another or cancel each other out. Hence, when we are at a wine tasting they recommend us to drink a particular wine with an aperitif.
This involves creating contrasts between flavors, for example, the acidity of a white wine can balance perfectly with the fat of a fish such as cod and other cold water fish.
How to create the perfect pairing?
To create a perfect pairing we must keep in mind that it can be subjective and will depend largely on individual preferences, as what may be pleasing to one person may not be to another.
Experts in gastronomy and enology usually provide guidelines and suggestions, but at the end of the day, the most important thing is that the pairing is pleasant and satisfying to the palate of those who enjoy it.
While there is no formula for creating a wine pairing, here are some steps and tips you can follow to get closer to a successful pairing:
1.- Know the flavors and characteristics
Before you begin pairing, it is important to understand the flavors and characteristics of both the foods and beverages you are considering. This includes aspects such as acidity, sweetness, bitterness, fat and the aromas present in each.
2.- Consider the intensity
Try to match the intensity of flavors between foods and beverages. For example, a strongly spiced or robust dish might need an equally robust wine to balance the flavors.
3.- Look for contrasts or similarities
Another consideration is that you can opt for contrasts that highlight opposing characteristics, or, on the other hand, you can look for similarities.
One way to understand a contrast is to think of tasting melon with Serrano ham. The combination is very pleasant, however, we start from different flavors and sensations and therefore, contrasting. On the subject of wines, a contrast could be to try a dessert wine such as an Ice Wine or a Tokaji with a blue cheese.
On the other hand, the safest way is that of similarities or harmonizations such as tasting a white wine that has green apple aromas with a fish ceviche to which we add green apple in small cubes. From the aromas we achieve a perfect harmonization!
4.- Take into account the structure
Consider the structure of the dish and how it is presented in terms of texture, fat and key elements, select beverages that complement and enhance these qualities. Mouthfeel is the basis for a good pairing. Pairing a pasta bolognese is not the same as pairing a pasta with butter. What is the difference? The structure of the sauce and the spices used in the preparation.
5.- Experiment
One tip we have for you is not to be afraid to experiment; try different combinations and trust your taste buds. Sometimes unusual combinations can be surprisingly successful.
6.- Follow expert advice
Read and research food pairings suggested by experts in gastronomy and enology. There are many websites, books and magazines that offer useful recommendations. However, remember that these are just starting points and not hard and fast rules, trust your taste buds. If you visit Latitude 32 or Polaris, both restaurants of Vinícola El Cielo, you will see that the menus suggest the perfect wine for each dish.
7.- Customize
Adjust the recommendations to your personal preferences. If you have a preference for certain types of flavors or drinks, feel free to adapt the pairings to your taste.
Of course, if you are planning to serve a wine pairing on a special occasion, be sure to test the combination in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Now that you know more about wine pairing, its objectives and how to get a perfect one for your restaurant or your events at home, share this article on your social networks so that more people know more about what it is. Also stay tuned to our blog for all the latest news about the world of wine, vintage and pairing.
