In the food and wine pairing world, there are a few general guidelines that most people seem to follow. For example, beef is typically paired with red wine, while chicken goes well with white wine. However, when looking at seafood and wine pairings, things can get a bit more tricky. Some people believe that seafood should be paired with white wines only, while others think reds are the way to go. So, what's the right answer? And more importantly, what are some of the best wine and seafood pairings out there? As a delicious raw seafood bar, we have some thoughts on what the best seafood and wine pairings are.Read on to find out!
1. Chardonnay and Crab
Crab has a light, delicate flavor that is often overpowered by wines with bolder flavors. That's why a good Chardonnay is the perfect pairing for this seafood favorite. The wine's fruity, buttery flavors will perfectly complement the crab without overpowering it.
2. Sauvignon Blanc and Shrimp
Similar to crab, shrimp can also be easily overpowered by bolder wines. However, the fresh, grassy flavors of Sauvignon Blanc will provide the perfect balance. The wine's acidity will also help to cut through the richness of the shrimp's flavor.
3. Pinot Noir and Salmon
Salmon is a rich, oily fish, which can be difficult to pair with wine. However, Pinot Noir is the perfect choice for this seafood dish. The wine's delicate flavors will complement the salmon without overpowering it, and the wine's acidity will perfectly complement the flavorful fish.
4. Malbec and Lobster
Lobster is a rich, decadent seafood that perfectly matches Malbec's bold flavors. The wine's dark fruit flavors will complement the lobster's bold flavor profile, and the wine's tannins will help balance out the sweetness of the meat.
5. Riesling and Scallops
Scallops have a delicate, sweet flavor that can be easily overpowered by bolder wines. However, Riesling's sweetness will complement the scallops without overpowering them. Instead, the wine's acidity balances the seafood's light flavor, creating a more enjoyable experience overall.
6. Pinot Gris and Oysters
No matter if they are the main dish or just a side, raw oysters pair beautifully with fuller white wines. By matching a full-bodied wine with a full-bodied dish, you can enjoy both without the flavors of one getting lost in the middle.
7. Chenin Blanc and Mussels
Dry, austere, and crisp, you can’t go wrong with Chenin Blanc when mussels are on the table. As a fatty seafood dish, the flavor profile of mussels can greatly benefit from the floral and honeyed aromas, quince and apple-like flavors, and high acidity of a classic Chenin Blanc.
8. Pinot Grigio and Clams
Clams are a delicate, light seafood, and they pair well with the delicate flavors of Pinot Grigio. The wine's dry profile will enhance the clams' subtle flavors and the wine's hints of lime, lemon, pear, white nectarine, and apple as well as faint honeyed notes, floral aromas, and a saline-like minerality perfectly complement the seafood.
The Best Wine and Seafood Pairings in Marietta
The next time you want to delight your taste buds with a stellar wine and seafood pairing, drop by Mac’s Raw Bar, a Marietta seafood restaurant. With a little knowledge about what flavors pair well together and some advice from our pairing experts, you can easily choose from a raw bar menu that will have you raving for weeks. Stop by today and see why our wine and seafood pairings are the best in town!
