Like Peas In A Pod – Perfect Pairings For Winter Reds
The weather is cooling down, the heater is being cranked up, and the sound of popping bottles of red wine, pouring into a generous glass is echoing around the kitchen. Red wine is delectable on its own, but to enhance the experience further, why not treat yourself to your own wine pairing session? Grand Cru has all the expertise needed to guide you through the sometimes-confusing world of wine pairing.
Cabernet Sauvignon
A medium to full-bodied red, Cabernet Sauvignons are the perfect accompaniment to hearty, winter dishes such as a juicy roast of lamb or pork, sided with crispy roast potatoes and creamy cheesy cauliflower bake. Another classic pairing for this rich wine is beef. Whether in steak or burger form, the sweet tannins of the wine cut through the umami flavour of the meat, creating a perfectly balanced palette.
Cabernet Sauvignon Menu:
Cauliflower Cheese - RecipeTinEats
The Best Crispy Roast Potatoes – Serious Eats
Butter-Basted Rib Eye Steaks – Food & Wine
Merlot
Merlot is often paired with grazing or snacking foods, due to its medium-bodied, full-flavoured taste. Its sweetness balances perfectly with cheeses such as sharp cheddar, Gorgonzola and blue cheese varieties. Berries and fruit are another common grazing platter pairing, with the sweet berries playing with the plummy notes of the wine. For a cosy winter meal, pair a glass of Merlot with a hearty, tomato-based pasta dish with hints of tarragon and garlic to fully enhance your wine-pairing experience.
Our Favourite Lasagne – Taste.com
Cheese Pairings – Cheese Store
Triple Berry Almond Poke Cake – Lovely Little Kitchen
Pinot Noir
One of the most versatile red wine varietals, Pinot Noir pairs perfectly with a range of foods, from fish to red meat to goat cheese. Pinot Noir comes in many styles, which is what makes it such a delicious wine to have stocked in your Grand Cru fridge.
Sweeter, lighter-bodied Pinots pair perfectly with dishes with a hint of spice, such as san choy bau or a tasty Tikka Masala. To pair with a richer, full-bodied Pinot this winter, go for rustic poultry dishes like coq au vin or a hearty, warming beef stew.
Thai-Style Lemongrass and Chilli San Choy Bau – SBS Food
Shiraz
A well-known winter warmer, Shiraz is a bold, medium to full-bodied red wine grown around the world. This full-bodied red wine pairs well with a variety of different foods, making it a versatile choice for any meal. For a lighter option, pair Shiraz with grilled chicken or fish. For something heartier, try it with red meat or pasta dishes. And for a truly indulgent meal, serve shiraz with dark chocolate or cheese. No matter what you pair it with, shiraz is sure to add some extra flavour to your meal.
One-Pot Spanish Chickpea Chicken – Kristine’s Kitchen
Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta – The Kitchen Paper
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter – Natasha’s Kitchen
By following our guidelines, you'll be sure to create a red wine and food pairing that will please your palate and warm your soul.
