New Zealand is known for its high-quality wines, and even more so for its unique and delicious food. Combining the two is an art form that can truly elevate one’s dining experience. From Sauvignon Blanc to Pinot Noir, there are an abundance of New Zealand wines to choose from when looking to create the perfect pairing with your favourite dish.
Matching Wines with Specific Dishes
When looking to match wine with a specific dish, the key is to look at the flavours of the food and figure out what type of wine will bring out those flavours. For example, if you’re looking for a wine that pairs nicely with a fish dish, a Sauvignon Blanc is usually a safe bet. This type of wine is known for its light, aromatic flavors that work well with seafood. On the other hand, if your dish is a bit more robust, such as a red meat dish, then you would want to opt for a stronger, bolder red wine such as a Pinot Noir or a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Popular Food and Wine Pairings
There are many popular food and wine pairings from New Zealand that have stood the test of time. Here are some of the most popular combinations:
- Sauvignon Blanc and Seafood Salad: Sauvignon Blanc is a popular choice when pairing with seafood, as its light and crisp flavour pairs nicely with the delicate flavours of the dish. The zesty acidity of the wine is a great accompaniment to the crunchy vegetables in the salad.
- Pinot Noir and Grilled Salmon: Pinot Noir is a great choice when looking to pair a red wine with salmon, as its light fruity notes are able to stand up to the strong yet delicate flavour of the fish. The tannins in the wine helps to balance out the richness of the fish, creating a perfect pairing.
Another popular combo is Chardonnay and Chicken Salad, as the light, buttery taste of the wine pairs nicely with the slight sweetness of the chicken. The acid in the wine helps to cut through the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing finish.
Other Local Dishes and Wines
While seafood and chicken are popular choices in New Zealand, there are an abundance of other local dishes that can be paired with a variety of wines. One such example is Lamb and Cabernet Sauvignon. The bold tannins of the wine are a great accompaniment to the rich and flavourful lamb, helping to draw out the unique flavours of the dish.
Another popular pairing is Venison and Syrah. Syrah’s peppery notes add a nice counterpoint to the gaminess of the meat, while the bold tannins in the wine help to balance out the fat content of the venison.
- For those with a sweet tooth, New Zealand cheesecake and late-harvest Riesling is the perfect combination. The sweetness of the wine helps to balance the creaminess of the cheesecake, creating a beautiful pairing.
- For a simpler dish, Green salad and Sauvignon Blanc is always a good combination. The crisp, zesty notes of the wine are a great complement to the peppery greens in the salad.
Overall, finding the right wine and food pairing can greatly enhance one’s dining experience. New Zealand is home to an abundance of different wines, and with the help of this guide, you can easily find the perfect pairing for your favourite dish. From Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, to late-harvest Riesling and Syrah, New Zealand has a wine for every palate.