Description

Cucumber are in the melon family and taste unripe watermelon.

Light, citrusy white wines with "congruent" (shared) notes are the best match.

Verdejo and Rueda share melon flavors and a citrus touch.

The grassy character is shared with Grüner Veltliner.

The cantaloupe note in Pinot Gris helps to tone down the bitterness of row cucumber.

Light and salty Muscadet and Assyrtico will match and not overwhelm.

Pairing Wine and Acid

Pairing wine with salads can be a challenge.

Salad dressings are mostly vinegar-based with high acidity.

Always remember to pair Acidity with Acidity.

Go Local if You Can

Let local wines complement the flavors of local food.

Pairing local wine with local food will enhance the dining experience by harmonizing the characteristics of the wine with the ingredients and cooking styles of the region:

Terroir

The environmental factors, soil, climate, and topography, that influence the characteristics of a wine, represent the Wine Terroir of a region. The ingredients, flavors, and cooking techniques represent the Cuisine Terroir.

Culture and Tradition

Local wines are deeply intertwined with the culture and traditions of a region. Pairing them with local cuisine creates an authentic culinary experience. For example, if a region is known for its hearty, red meat dishes, a robust and full-bodied red wine from the region will enhance the dining experience.

Ask for Help

Let local chefs and winemakers collaborate to create innovative pairings that showcase the best of the region.

A good rule of thumb is to match the intensity of the wine with the richness of the meat for the best pairing experience.

Examples

Pairing Italian Chianti with traditional Tuscan dishes like Pasta with Ragu or Beef Fiorentina.

Enjoy a Red Burgundy with classic French dishes like coq au vin or boeuf Bourguignon.

Matching Spanish Rioja with Paella or Tempranillo with Tapas.