The Strangest Wine Pairings That Somehow Work

As wine enthusiasts, we're always on the hunt for new and exciting flavor combinations that challenge the traditional notions of what goes well together. While the classic pairings of wine and food are certainly delightful, sometimes the most unexpected combinations can be the most rewarding.

At McLaren Vale Cellars, we pride ourselves on not only offering an exceptional selection of premium local wines, but also on our willingness to explore the boundaries of conventional wine pairing wisdom. In this blog post, we'll dive into some of the strangest, yet surprisingly successful wine pairings that might just change the way you think about enjoying your favorite vino.

Chocolate and Cabernet Sauvignon

It's a pairing that might seem counterintuitive at first – the rich, velvety tannins of a bold Cabernet Sauvignon paired with the decadent sweetness of chocolate. However, when done right, this combination can be a true revelation for the senses.

The key is to choose a high-quality, dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, which helps to balance the tannins in the wine. The bitterness of the chocolate can actually enhance the fruit flavors in the Cabernet, creating a harmonious and indulgent experience.

We recommend trying a McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon from a producer like Wirra Wirra or Coriole, paired with a 70% or higher cocoa content dark chocolate. The interplay of the wine's structure and the chocolate's richness is truly something to behold.

Pairing Tip:

When enjoying this pairing, be sure to let the wine and chocolate melt on your tongue together, allowing the flavors to mingle and evolve. The result is a decadent, almost dessert-like experience that will leave you craving more.

Sushi and Riesling

At first glance, the delicate, fresh flavors of sushi might seem at odds with the bold, acidic nature of a Riesling wine. However, this pairing is a true testament to the versatility of both the wine and the dish.

The high acidity and bright, fruity notes of a well-crafted Riesling can actually complement the subtle flavors of sushi, acting as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites. The wine's minerality also helps to balance the richness of ingredients like avocado or salmon.

For the best results, look for a dry or off-dry Riesling from the McLaren Vale region, such as those produced by Shaw + Smith or Yangarra. The wine's bright citrus and stone fruit notes will dance beautifully with the delicate flavors of your sushi selection.

Pairing Tip:

When pairing sushi and Riesling, be mindful of the specific ingredients in your sushi. Lighter fish like tuna or yellowtail pair best with a drier Riesling, while richer options like salmon or eel may benefit from a slightly sweeter style of the wine.

Spicy Curry and Gewürztraminer

The fiery heat of a well-seasoned curry dish might seem like the antithesis of a delicate, aromatic white wine. However, the floral, spicy notes of a Gewürztraminer can actually be the perfect foil for the bold flavors of a curry.

The wine's inherent sweetness helps to tame the heat of the curry, while the wine's own spicy characteristics – think lychee, rose petal, and white pepper – complement the spices in the dish. The result is a harmonious and deeply satisfying pairing that will have your taste buds singing.

For the best experience, seek out a Gewürztraminer from the McLaren Vale region, such as those produced by Coriole or Wirra Wirra. These wines often exhibit a beautiful balance of richness and acidity, making them the ideal companion for a fragrant, spicy curry.

Pairing Tip:

When pairing Gewürztraminer with curry, consider the specific spices and heat level of the dish. A milder curry may pair best with a drier style of Gewürztraminer, while a fiery, heavily spiced curry can stand up to a slightly sweeter expression of the varietal.

Grilled Steak and Pinot Noir

The classic pairing of a juicy, grilled steak and a bold, tannic red wine is undeniably delicious. But what about when you swap out that Cabernet Sauvignon for a more delicate Pinot Noir?

While it may seem counterintuitive, the lighter, more nuanced flavors of a Pinot Noir can actually be the perfect foil for the rich, savory flavors of a well-cooked steak. The wine's bright acidity helps to cut through the fattiness of the meat, while its subtle earthy and fruit-forward notes complement the char and umami of the grilled steak.

For this pairing, we recommend seeking out a Pinot Noir from the renowned McLaren Vale region, such as those produced by Coriole or Wirra Wirra. These wines often exhibit a beautiful balance of structure and elegance, making them the ideal companion for your grilled steak.

Pairing Tip:

When pairing Pinot Noir with grilled steak, consider the doneness of the meat. A rare or medium-rare steak will pair best with a lighter, more delicate Pinot Noir, while a well-done steak may benefit from a slightly richer, more structured expression of the varietal.

Conclusion

At McLaren Vale Cellars, we believe that the joy of wine lies in its ability to surprise and delight us. By exploring the boundaries of conventional wine pairing wisdom, we can uncover new and exciting flavor combinations that challenge our preconceptions and expand our palates.

Whether it's the decadent pairing of Cabernet Sauvignon and dark chocolate, the refreshing interplay of sushi and Riesling, the harmonious dance of spicy curry and Gewürztraminer, or the elegant balance of grilled steak and Pinot Noir, these unexpected pairings prove that the world of wine is full of endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.

So, the next time you're browsing our shelves at McLaren Vale Cellars, don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. You never know – the strangest pairing just might become your new favorite.