The way to pick the right wine for best tasting dinner

Choosing a wine bottle could be a very challenging task. When hosting a social dinner function, having the "right" wine bottle is essential. Not only does a personal preference play a role in wine selection, the food itself ought to be looked at. Wine pairing is the idea of selecting a wine with a taste profile that flatters the taste profile of the meals. There are characteristics amongst the wine and meals that will show they "go well" together. This is one approach to the wine pairing. The other strategy is to have contradicting profiles, so that the wine can balance the food, and vice versa. Partnering wine with meals is not an exact science, however, you will find some things that should be looked at when choosing a wine bottle.

When partnering, do you select red or white?

For instance, you may want to choose a white wine with a meal that is lighter entrees while red wine is better with heavier food. For instance, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Chardonnay would be good possibilities for pairing with salads and lighter entrees such as seafood. If you’re having beef, lamb, veal or a BBQ, you might be better off with Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot noir, Syrah, Merlot, Zinfandel or other heavier red wines.

The fundamental principles to follow

There are other things to consider in these "rules." One example is the spices meals preparation use. Pasta with a red marinara sauce pairs well with a Zinfandel or a Chianti, while a Pasta that is made with an alfredo or parmesan sauce might be better suited to a Merlot, or even a Chardonnay. When making chicken marsala, a Pinot Noir or Merlot would be good choices. However, a lemon chicken might be something to pair with Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio instead.

The more satisfying side

Dessert could be another aspect to consider when choosing wine. Any fruit or citrus desserts would go well with ice wine and late harvest Riesling. Cabernet Sauvignon is a good choice with chocolate desserts that are darker without red meat. When serving chocolate, you may want to try Port wines or champagne.

Many like to do wine partnering. It keeps the meal intriguing and fun. There really is no right or wrong when it comes to wine pairing. Part of the fun of paring wine is experimenting with different combinations and different flavor profiles. Wine is the optimum when friends and family are there while it adds a nice touch to every meal. What exactly are you waiting for? Drink up!