Think Outside the Box: Surprising Wine Pairings for Your Favorite Comfort Foods
As the weather turns cooler and the leaves start to change, there's nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of warm soup or a cheesy pasta dish. While these comfort foods are perfect for a cozy night in, they're not always the easiest to pair with wine. But have no fear – we're here to help you think outside the box with some surprising wine pairings for your favorite comfort foods.
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food – it's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. But when it comes to wine pairing, most people reach for a Chardonnay. While a buttery Chardonnay can complement the richness of mac and cheese, we suggest trying a Sauvignon Blanc instead. The crisp acidity will cut through the richness of the cheese sauce, while the tropical fruit flavors will complement the pasta.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic comfort food combination. But instead of reaching for a basic red, try pairing this meal with a rosé. The light-bodied wine has enough acidity to cut through the fat of the cheese, while the fruitiness complements the sweetness of the tomato soup.
Chili
Chili is the perfect one-pot meal for a cozy night in. While most people pair chili with beer, we suggest trying a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins in the wine will cut through the heat of the chili, while the ripe fruit flavors will complement the tomato base.
Meatloaf
Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food – it's hearty, savory, and satisfying. When it comes to wine pairing, most people reach for a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. But we suggest trying a Pinot Noir instead. The light-bodied wine will complement the meaty flavors of the dish, while the earthy undertones will bring out the herbs and spices used in the meatloaf.
Pizza
Whether you're a fan of pepperoni or veggie, pizza is a comfort food favorite. Instead of reaching for a basic red, try pairing your pizza with a sparkling rosé. The bubbles will cut through the greasiness of the pizza, while the fruitiness complements the tomato sauce and toppings.
In conclusion, don't be afraid to experiment with wine pairings when it comes to your favorite comfort foods. By thinking outside the box, you may just discover a new favorite pairing. Cheers to cozy nights in with delicious comfort food and surprising wines!