Best Red Wine Varietals for Cooking Traditional French Cuisine

When it comes to French cuisine, the use of wine in cooking is a must. Red wine, in particular, is a popular choice for cooking because it adds depth of flavor and richness to dishes.

However, not all red wines are created equal when it comes to cooking. Here are some of the best red wine varietals to use when cooking traditional French cuisine:

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a popular choice because it has a light to medium body and low tannins, which allows it to pair well with a variety of flavors. It’s a great choice for dishes that feature mushrooms or other earthy flavors.

Merlot

Merlot is another great choice for cooking. It’s medium-bodied with a smooth finish, making it a great pairing for heartier dishes like stews or braised meats.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold and flavorful wine that is perfect for dishes that need a little extra oomph. It pairs well with red meats and can stand up to strong flavors like garlic and rosemary.

Syrah

Syrah is a full-bodied wine that is perfect for dishes that need a little extra richness. It pairs well with game meats, and its hints of black pepper and spice can add depth of flavor to stews and sauces.

When choosing a red wine for cooking, it’s important to consider the flavors of the dish you’ll be preparing. If the dish is lighter, you’ll want to choose a lighter wine. For heartier dishes, a fuller-bodied wine will be a better choice.

Keep in mind that the quality of the wine you choose will also affect the final outcome of your dish. You don’t have to use the most expensive wine, but choosing a wine that you’d actually drink will help ensure that your dish turns out delicious.

So next time you’re whipping up a traditional French dish, be sure to reach for one of these red wine varietals. Bon appétit!