Choosing the perfect wine to pair with your meal can feel a little daunting if you’re no connoisseur. Certain experts would have you believe it’s an exact science, but while there are some general guidelines, it’s mostly about your preferences. It’s true that good wine pairings elevate the flavours of both the food and the wine, but getting it right is easier than you think. The best restaurants for lunch often have a sommelier to help out, but if you want to try your hand at picking the perfect wine, here are some top tips.
Red, white or sparkling?
As a rule, white wines and rosés work best with chicken, fish and vegetarian dishes, while reds pair well with beef, lamb and game. However, consider the sauce you’re choosing too. Medium-bodied reds like Montepulciano and Sangiovese complement tomato based sauces beautifully, while creamy sauces suit structured whites such as Chardonnay and Sancerre. If you’re opting for seafood or fried dishes like arancini or fish and chips, a sparkling wine will make an excellent match.
Acidity
The acidity of a wine comes through in its fresh, bright notes. Crisp wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio typically have higher acidity compared to an oaked Chardonnay, for example. Reds like Pinot Noir and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo also have higher acidity than Malbec and Merlot. If you’re opting for an oily dish like smoked salmon, or the fresh, zesty flavours of lemon, apple, ginger or chilli, a higher acidity wine is a great pairing.
Spices
Spicy foods can be challenging to pair with wine, as the strong flavours often clash with more traditional choices. As a rule, sweeter options like an off-dry Riesling or Gewurztraminer match well with spicier dishes, complementing the flavours without being overpowered by them.
There’s no wrong answer
Ultimately, choosing the ideal wine for your meal depends on your own tastes and preferences. If you’re choosing beef, for example, but you don’t like red wine, you can experiment with a full-bodied white or a more intense rosé. If your choice pleases you, then it’s a good choice for your palate. If it doesn’t work out, it will simply inform your decision next time.
Ask for help
The best places to eat in Wembley usually have a sommelier on hand to help out, so if in doubt don’t be afraid to ask for a good pairing. A sommelier is trained to provide recommendations based on your meal choice and preferences, and will invariably guide you to a good option.
Studio Five – Finding the perfect match
If you’re looking for places to eat in Wembley that offer bold dishes and exciting wine pairings, look no further than Studio Five. With a modern menu where East meets West, a varied wine list and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to explore new flavours and quality wines. Our sommelier Valentina will help you find the perfect wine for your chosen dish, creating a unique and memorable taste experience. Book your table today or pop in as you’re passing – we often have space available for walk-ins.
