Winepro Top 20 Food and Wine Pairings you must try

Great food and wine pairings can elevate a meal from enjoyable to unforgettable. While personal preference always matters most, the following combinations have stood the test of time and are widely regarded as some of the world's finest culinary matches.

1. Oysters & Champagne or fine Australian Sparkling

The ultimate celebration pairing. The briny freshness of oysters perfectly complements the crisp acidity and fine bubbles of Champagne.

2. Lobster & Chardonnay

Rich, buttery lobster pairs beautifully with premium Chardonnay, particularly barrel-fermented styles.

3. Chargrilled Steak & Cabernet Sauvignon

A classic match. The tannins in Cabernet soften when paired with protein-rich beef, creating remarkable harmony. Of Course Shiraz also works well.

4. Roast Lamb & Shiraz

Australia's signature food and wine combination. The savoury richness of lamb is magnificent with spicy, full-bodied Shiraz. Naturally Cabernet Sauvignon works too, with thyme and rosemary in the dish.

5. Duck & Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir's elegance, bright acidity and subtle earthiness make it a natural companion for duck.

6. Mushroom Risotto & Pinot Noir

Earthy mushrooms and silky Pinot Noir create a sophisticated and deeply satisfying pairing.

7. Wood-fired Pizza & Sangiovese

Tomato-based dishes love acidity, making Sangiovese an ideal partner.

8. Charcuterie & Grenache

The juicy red fruit and spice of Grenache work wonderfully with cured meats.

9. Roast Pork & Riesling

The freshness and natural acidity of Riesling cut through the richness of pork beautifully.

10. Thai Green Curry & Gewürztraminer

The aromatic intensity and slight sweetness of Gewürztraminer tame spicy Thai flavours.

11. Sushi & Sauvignon Blanc

The freshness and citrus notes of Sauvignon Blanc complement delicate seafood and sushi.

12. Goat Cheese & Sauvignon Blanc

One of the world's great pairings. The wine's acidity and herbaceous notes perfectly match fresh goat cheese.

13. Roast Chicken & Chardonnay

An incredibly versatile and comforting combination suitable for almost any occasion.

14. Smoked Salmon & Sparkling Wine

The bubbles refresh the palate while complementing the smoky richness of the salmon.

15. Blue Cheese & Fortified styles

The salty intensity of blue cheese is magnificently balanced by the sweetness of Port.

16. Dark Chocolate & Fortified Shiraz

Rich dark chocolate and luscious fortified Shiraz create a decadent dessert experience.

17. Peking Duck & Pinot Noir

The savoury, slightly sweet flavours of Peking duck are beautifully enhanced by Pinot Noir.

18. Indian Butter Chicken & Viognier

The aromatic richness and texture of Viognier pair exceptionally well with creamy Indian curries. Hot Curry with Whisky is also worth exploring.

19. Barbecued Ribs & Zinfandel

The bold fruit and spice of Zinfandel stand up to smoky, sticky barbecue flavours.

20. Sticky Date Pudding & Muscat

A luscious Australian Muscat is one of the finest companions for this beloved dessert.

Golden Rules for Successful Food and Wine Pairing

1. Match intensity with intensity — delicate foods with delicate wines, rich foods with fuller wines.
2. Acidity in wine refreshes the palate and complements rich dishes.
3. Tannic red wines generally pair best with protein-rich foods, yet sometimes it's the sauces or glazes that bridge the gap.
4. Sweet wines should be sweeter than the dessert they accompany.
5. Regional foods and wines often naturally complement one another, if it grows with it, it goes with it.
6. Most importantly, drink what you enjoy — personal preference always wins, and keep in mind that opposites sometimes attract, like a sticky late harvest dessert wine with flour-less cocoa dusted chocolate cake or with hard cheeses.

Exploring these classic combinations is one of the most rewarding aspects of wine appreciation, and many wine lovers spend a lifetime discovering new and exciting pairings.

 

Have Fun.