As the weather cools down, most of us tend to reach for red wines to enjoy with heartier or heavier dishes. Brand’s Laira chief winemaker Peter Weinberg shares his advice on choosing the best red wines to enjoy with friends or family – whether it’s a night in or out. While there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to food and wine pairing, there are some simple tricks to keep in mind.
Brand’s Laira of Coonawarra in South Australia, is home to some of the oldest vines in the country and produces award-winning and world renowned reds, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. Red wines are classic winter warmers but when it comes to making great food wine matches, Peter suggests that body reigns supreme.
“Consider the weight or complexity of the dish and the wine. Heavier, full bodied wines are usually matched well with more substantial or intricate plates. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon is a good choice to enjoy with braised beef as a main or a platter of strong cheeses after dinner.
The wine you choose should be as sweet – or sweeter – than the dish. If it’s not, the wine may seem a little ‘off balance’.
I also recommend pairing wines according to a dish’s spice and sauce, rather than its main ingredient. Try not to get caught up with old school rules like ‘chicken should only be paired with white wines’. Select a wine that compliments the flavours and aromas of the dish.
For example, chicken with a slightly sweet barbecue sauce usually pairs nicely with fresh, crisp Rosé.
Finally, don’t overthink it and enjoy your night. Experiment with different wine and food pairings and be a bit bold. Trust your senses and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.”
Over coming months, Brand’s Laira will be bringing the best of Coonawarra to the city as official wine partner of Good Food Month. Keep an eye out for Brand’s Laira pop-up Cellar Doors at the Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne Night Noodle Markets, and Brand’s Laira wines on the menu at all Good Food Month feature events. We hope to share a glass of wine with you soon!