FOOD PAIRINGS || 3 Mouthwatering Food & Wine Pairings to Bring to Your Holiday Gathering
Deck the halls (and dinner table) with deliciousness this holiday season!
Impress your guests with not just delectable appetizers, but also perfectly matched wines that elevate each bite. Let's ditch the guessing game and dive into 3 mouthwatering food and wine pairings from BCLIQUOR’s winter issue of taste magazine that are guaranteed to steal the show at your festive gathering:
1. Festive Fusion: Ornamental Cheese, Salmon Crisps & Sparkling Joy
Imagine this: bite-sized masterpieces featuring creamy, crumbly cheese adorned with vibrant cranberry-pistachio pesto trees, all perched atop crispy salmon bites. This symphony of textures and flavours calls for a bubbly celebration! Opt for a Veuve Du Vernay Brut. Its bright citrus notes and lively effervescence cut through the richness of the cheese, while the subtle toasty aroma complements the pesto's piney accents. This pairing is pure, festive glee in every sip and nibble.
2. Bold & Beautiful: N'duja Puffs & The Spice of Life
For those who crave a touch of heat, N'duja puffs offer a fiery kick. These savoury pastries ooze with this spicy pork spread's intense, smoky flavour. To tame the flames and enhance the savoury depths, reach for a Saintly The Good Red. This Grenache-dominant blend boasts ripe blackberry and plum notes, with a touch of earthy spice that mirrors the N'duja. The wine's smooth tannins stand up to the richness of the puff pastry, creating a harmonious balance that keeps you reaching for more.
3. Emerald Enchantment: Pesto Trees & Rosé Rendezvous
The vibrant pesto trees, with their symphony of cranberry, pistachio, and creamy cheese, deserve a wine that sings harmoniously with their unique character. Enter the Quails' Gate Rosé. This elegant pink wine, crafted from Pinot Noir grapes, offers delicate notes of strawberry, raspberry, and a hint of floral sweetness. These fruity nuances perfectly complement the cranberries' tartness and the pesto's herbal freshness, while the wine's lively acidity cuts through the creaminess of the cheese. It's a match made in emerald heaven, leaving you with a delightful and refreshing finish.
These are just a few mouthwatering options to inspire your holiday food and wine pairings. Remember, the key is to consider the dominant flavours and textures of your appetizers and choose wines that complement or contrast them delightfully. With a little creativity and these pairings as your guide, you can create a culinary symphony that will have your guests raving about your festive feast long after the holidays are over.
Bonus Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment! Explore different varietals and regional wines to find hidden gems that pair beautifully with your chosen appetizers. A whole world of flavour is waiting to be discovered, and part of the joy of hosting is the thrill of creating delightful surprises for your guests.
So, raise a glass, savour the bite, and let the festive spirit reign through the perfect marriage of food and wine! Happy holidays!