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FAQ on Wine Pairings for Chicken & Seafood

12.11.10

Q: What wine is best served with grilled salmon?
A: Salmon is one of those wonderfully full-flavored meaty fish that can complement white or red wines.  Depending on the preparation of the salmon, a nice Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, or Merlot can be a great match.

A: What wine is best served with grilled chicken?
Q: Wine is paired with the strongest flavor on the plate. If the grilled chicken is smoked in any way, then a heavier oaked Chardonnay or light fruity red like Merlot, Shiraz, Beaujolais, or Pinot Noir could work. For example, if the grilled chicken has no smokey character, then an Unoaked Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Chenin Blanc, or Riesling would be perfect. 

A: How can I pair Merlot with chicken or fish?
Q: If you smoke the white meat, use a herbed seasoning like rosemary or sage on the white meat, or serve the meat with a tomato based sauce, then it would be a perfect pairing for Merlot. You pair the wine to the strongest flavor on the plate. Create your sauce/preparation to complement the wine. In addition, there are fish like tuna which are naturally suited to red wines.

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