introduction
Wine is traditionally associated with fine dining, but even when paired with fast food, fine wines can create surprising taste experiences. Here are some unexpected pairings that work surprisingly well and demonstrate that wine can do much more than just accompany haute cuisine.
Burger and red wine
Pinot Noir and burgers
A juicy burger can pair beautifully with a fruity, medium-bodied red wine. A Pinot Noir from the Ahr region in Germany would be an excellent choice, as it has enough structure to complement the meat, yet is elegant enough not to overpower the spices. [3] The fine tannins and fruity aromas of the Pinot Noir perfectly complement the savory flavor of the burger.
French fries and sparkling wine
Secco and fries
The combination of crispy fries with a dry sparkling wine may seem unusual at first, but the acidity and bubbles of the wine complement the saltiness and fattiness of the fries perfectly. A German secco, such as Hirschhof Secco from Rheinhessen, could be a surprisingly good choice here [2]. The freshness and vibrancy of the sparkling wine bring an exciting dimension to this simple yet popular fast-food option.
Pizza and white wine
Riesling and pizza
Contrary to the common notion that pizza only works with red wine, a dry white wine like a Riesling Kabinett or Sauvignon Blanc can be a refreshing addition. These wines have enough acidity to complement the tomato sauce and enough fruit to harmonize with the cheese and spice notes. [2] The combination of the Riesling's crisp acidity and the rich flavors of the pizza creates a balanced flavor experience.
Fried Chicken and Riesling
Semi-dry Riesling and fried chicken
The sweetness and acidity of a medium-dry Riesling can pair beautifully with the spice and fattiness of fried chicken. The wine's freshness helps cleanse the palate between bites and provides a refreshing balance to the crispy texture of the chicken.
Fish & Chips and Chardonnay
Chardonnay and Fish & Chips
A slightly chilled, lightly oaked Chardonnay can be the perfect accompaniment to fish and chips. The wine's buttery notes complement the fish, while the acidity cuts through the fat and highlights the flavors. This combination shows how versatile Chardonnay can be when used correctly.
Conclusion
It's important to note that these combinations can be perceived very differently by individuals. As one expert notes, the idea that there is one "right" wine for every dish is quite questionable [2]. Ultimately, it's a matter of what suits individual tastes and what one feels like at the time.
When experimenting with wine and fast food, one should also consider the quality of the wine. Organic wines can be an interesting option here, as they often have unique characteristics and may be more easily digestible [2].
These unconventional pairings demonstrate that wine isn't just reserved for fine dining, but can also enhance everyday dishes in surprising ways. It's worth being open to new taste experiences and trying out different combinations.
Sources:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0OR1vB_-p4
[2] https://www.delinat.com/pdf/weinlese/WeinLese_4.pdf