Wine Pairing Basics Without the Stress

Wine pairing does not need to feel like a test. A few simple ideas can help you pick a bottle with confidence while still leaving room for personal taste.

Start with the main flavor

Think about the strongest part of the dish: rich, spicy, creamy, smoky, acidic, or delicate. Match the wine to that overall character rather than every ingredient.

Three easy rules

• Crisp, high-acid wines are flexible with many foods.
• Richer dishes often work with fuller-bodied wines.
• For spicy food, a fruit-forward or slightly sweeter wine can be refreshing.

When in doubt

Sparkling wine, dry rosé, and versatile medium-bodied wines can cover a wide range of foods. The best pairing is still a wine you and your guests enjoy.