Pairing wine to Holiday meals

Wine pairings generally follow the principle of matching the intensity and flavors of the wine with the food, either through complementary or contrasting profiles. A full-bodied wine can overpower a light dish, while a high-acid wine can cut through the richness of fatty foods. 

General Principles

• Match weight and intensity: Pair light-bodied wines like Pinot Grigio with delicate dishes (salads, seafood), and full-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon with robust, flavorful meals (steak, rich stews).

• Balance acidity and sweetness: A wine should ideally be more acidic or sweeter than the food it is paired with to prevent the wine from tasting flat or bitter by comparison.

• Use tannins to cut fat: The astringent tannins found in many red wines bind with fat and protein in rich foods, which softens the tannins and cleanses the palate.

• Consider regional pairings: Wines and cuisines from the same geographic region have often evolved together to complement each other perfectly (e.g., Chianti with Italian tomato-based pasta dishes). 

Common Pairings by Wine Type

• Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Pair with: Grilled or roasted red meats like steak or lamb, aged cheddar, and dark chocolate.

  • Why it works: The wine's bold tannins and dark fruit flavors stand up to the richness of the meat and fat.

• Pinot Noir

  • Pair with: Earthy flavors like mushrooms and truffles, duck, salmon, and creamy soft cheeses like Brie or Gruyère.

  • Why it works: Its delicate flavors and acidity complement lighter proteins and earthy dishes without overpowering them.

• Sauvignon Blanc

  • Pair with: Goat cheese, fresh seafood (oysters, grilled fish), salads with vinaigrette dressing, and dishes with fresh green herbs.

  • Why it works: Its high acidity and sometimes herbal notes balance tangy foods and cut through fish oils.

• Sparkling Wine (Champagne, Prosecco, Cava)

  • Pair with: Anything salty (potato chips, cured meats), fried chicken, sushi, and a wide variety of cheeses.

  • Why it works: The bubbles and high acidity act as a refreshing palate cleanser for rich, salty, and fatty foods. 

No matter what you’re pairing with your meal, Rustic Ridge Vineyards wine is here to be your perfect pairing