Wine Is As Fickle As We Are
For some people, different wines can evoke different moods. That really makes sense because the different grapes that create the different wines are grown and tempered at so many different variables. Some are grown in higher or lower elevations, while some are grown in warmer or colder climates. All are grown for a specific taste of dry or sweet depending on the tannins. Since everyone’s tastes are at least slightly different, there is virtually a wine for everyone and their specific pallet. Because wine is so personal, so is the choice of food to pare with it to achieve its optimal taste benefit for each individual. There are some basic things to consider, but ultimately it’s really a personal thing. For example, California wines are different in taste as well as it has different grapes style. California wines can usually be sold at California wine clubs for all wine subscription fans.
White Wines, Sweet and Dry
The Moscoto is the sweetheart of all white wines. It has a slightly bubbly personality and carries with it a citrusy and fruity taste that is sweet and satisfying. For a summer wine that is also a wonderful dessert companion, Moscato is the way to go. If you prefer a dry and complex wine to have with your serious fish and pasta, Pino Gris or Chardonnay are perfect choices. Also wonderful for summer, they are light but not sweet, soft but serious. Rose’s and Rieslings fall somewhere in the middle and are wonderful wines when you want to relax but not get too sweet. Add frozen pieces of fruit such as cherries, blueberries or raspberries and you can keep your wine cold with the pizzazz of summer flare.
Red Wines, Summer and Fall
There are many red wines with intense personalities and deep demeanors. For a summer red, pick out the best cabernet sauvignon you can find. The Cabernet seems to lend to a flirty and fun air and lifts the spirits while relaxing the mind. As the summer wanes and the cooler temperatures begin to arrive, switching to a serious merlot will warm you with its room temperature effect and deep manner. Not like its cabernet counterpart, the merlot takes the evening to a warm, thoughtful place while still enjoying the festivities themselves. For a deeper more serious affair, try a solid port that will end the night on a strong, sweet note. Foods that pare well with these reds are:
- Goat cheese tarts
- Steak Salads
- Beef short ribs
- Garlic chicken
- Deep chocolate desserts
Cooking With Your Wines
Pouring a glass of wine and taking out your cookbook is a delightful way to start any meal. Sipping your enchanting glass of wine while you mix ingredients and chop your vegetables makes the whole experience less of a chore and more of a hobby. As you cook, you can add different wines to your entrees to either deglaze the pan of braised beef and onions or complete the richness of the white sauce for your pasta dish. Many desserts enjoy the addition of a cup of wine to enhance the flavors and bring out a whole different taste that is rich and full. There is no limit to the term cooking with wine, from enjoying it during the process to adding it to all of your dishes.
Wine is complex and highly personal. But you should have fun with it. Try all of the different types to find the one you enjoy the most. You can always go a step further and have a seasonal wine list all your own so that you can enjoy a variety of wines throughout the year. Drink it, cook with it and experience it in all weather and occasions. There are plenty of options, so step out of your comfort zone and try something new.