10 Basic Wine Pairing Tips for Beginners

Welcome to Humanity Wine Co's blog, where we not only offer  exceptional wines but also contribute to the greater good by giving 50% of our profits to charity. In this post, we'll be sharing some basic wine pairing tips that are perfect for beginners. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, understanding wine pairings can enhance your experience and take it to the next level.

1. Consider the Wine's Intensity

When pairing wine with food, it's important to consider the intensity of the wine. A light-bodied wine like a Pinot Noir pairs well with delicate dishes like fish or chicken, while a full-bodied wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon is better suited for hearty dishes like steak or roasted vegetables. Click and get our recommended wines to start tasting! 

2. Match the Flavors

Matching the flavors of the wine and food is another key to a successful pairing. For example, a Sauvignon Blanc with its citrus and herb notes pairs well with seafood, while a spicy Shiraz is perfect for a barbecue or a dish with bold flavors. You can learn more about Syrah in our Blog HERE.

3. Pair Acidic Wines with Fatty Foods

Acidic wines like a Chardonnay or a Riesling pair well with fatty foods like salmon or pork. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the dish and helps to balance the flavors. Speaking about Riesling Wine, did you know that we have a special post about Riesling and we celebrate Riesling month in March? Come learn about this wine grape HERE!

4. Balance Sweetness

When pairing sweet wines like a Moscato or a Port, it's important to balance the sweetness of the wine with the dish. A sweet wine pairs well with desserts like chocolate or fruit-based dishes, but be sure not to pair it with a dish that's too sweet or the wine will lose its flavor.

5. Consider the Region

The region where the wine was produced can also provide clues for pairing. For example, Italian wines like Chianti or Barolo pair well with pasta dishes, while Spanish wines like Rioja or Tempranillo go well with tapas or paella.

6. Pair Red Wine with Bold Cheeses

Red wines like Merlot or Syrah pair well with bold cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar. The tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the cheese and bring out its flavors.

7. Think About the Season

The season can also play a role in wine pairing. Lighter wines like a Pinot Grigio or a Rosé pair well with summer salads and seafood dishes, while heavier wines like a Malbec or a Zinfandel pair well with winter stews or roasted meats.

8. Pair Sparkling Wine with Salty Foods

Sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco pair well with salty foods like popcorn or potato chips. The bubbles in the wine help to cleanse the palate and balance the saltiness of the dish.

9. Consider the Occasion

The occasion can also influence wine pairing. For a romantic dinner, a light-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais pairs well with a candlelit dinner. For a celebration, a bottle of bubbly like a Champagne or a Cava is perfect.

10. Experiment and Have Fun

Finally, the most important tip for wine pairing is to experiment and have fun. There are no hard and fast rules, and everyone's taste buds are different. So, don't be afraid to try new things and find your own perfect pairings. 

We hope these basic wine pairing tips have been helpful and will enhance your wine drinking experience. At Humanity Wine Co, we believe in not only offering exceptional wines but also giving back to the community. So, with every sip of our wine, you're not only enjoying a delicious wine but also contributing to the greater good. What else do you need to buy your wine from us? Go to OUR WEBSITE and Taste the best wines from around the world! And if you want to become a WinethropistTM and be part of a Wine Club that is ‘changing the world one glass at a time’, CLICK HERE and JOIN THE CLUB! 

Now we want to read about YOU! Leave a comment below and tell us which TIP was your FAVORITE. Did you know all of them?