How To Pair Wine With Food

Wine & Food

It is generally considered that there are two main ways of pairing wine and food. First, wine can become a component in the preparation of a meal. And second, it can be done by choosing a wine to accompany the food you are planning on eating. Of course, the first activity should always be followed by the second for maximum enjoyment! And, of course, one can always participate in both activities at the same time providing an ideal combination of food and wine.

Enjoy Wine With Dinner

A good wine will aid digestion, enhance the flavor of the food and, in the case of red wine, assist in keeping your heart healthy. There are many differing theories as to which wines to combine best with particular foods. However, my suggestion is that if it tastes right, it is right. While some gourmets may argue with this, there seems to be little downside in pairing wine and food in this manner.

Cooking With Wine

The Italians and French are masters of combining food with wine. Both cuisines make extensive use of both red and white wines in meal preparation from appetizers to sauces to desserts.

Usually, combining wine and food in this manner does not result in an alcoholic taste to the food as heating the wine or other liqueur typically removes the alcohol component.

An important rule when cooking with wine is never to cook with a wine that you don’t want to drink. This can mean opening a bottle of wine just for the recipe you are planning but the flavor boost to your dinner is worth it. Do not be tempted to cook with a wine that has been sitting on the kitchen counter for the last week since it was opened. If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t try to cook with it. You’ll find more ideas for cooking with wine, how to store wine and how to taste wine at Wine Cellar Secrets.