Chardonnay is a popular white wine that is enjoyed by many around the world. This versatile wine can be paired with a variety of foods and is often a go-to choice for many wine drinkers. If you’re wondering what to drink chardonnay with, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the many food options that pair well with chardonnay.
Chardonnay Overview
Before we dive into pairing options, let’s take a quick look at chardonnay as a wine. Chardonnay is a dry white wine that is made from the chardonnay grape. It is typically full-bodied, with flavors ranging from crisp and light to buttery and oaky. The flavor profile can vary widely depending on where the grapes were grown and how the wine was aged.
Chardonnay Pairing Basics
When it comes to pairing chardonnay with food, there are a few basic guidelines to keep in mind. First, consider the weight of the food. A light-bodied chardonnay pairs well with lighter dishes, such as salads or seafood, while a full-bodied chardonnay can stand up to heartier fare like grilled meats or creamy pasta dishes.
Another important factor to consider is the sauce or seasoning used in the dish. Chardonnay pairs well with dishes that have creamy or buttery sauces, as well as those that are seasoned with herbs like thyme or tarragon. Avoid dishes with heavy tomato-based sauces, as they can clash with the wine’s flavor profile.
Now, let’s explore some specific food options that pair well with chardonnay.
Seafood
One of the most classic pairings for chardonnay is seafood. The wine’s crisp acidity and light fruit flavors complement the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish. Try pairing a light-bodied chardonnay with grilled shrimp or scallops, or a full-bodied chardonnay with buttery lobster or crab.
Salads
Chardonnay also pairs well with salads. For a light and refreshing option, pair a crisp chardonnay with a salad topped with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette dressing. For a heartier salad, try pairing a full-bodied chardonnay with a salad that includes grilled chicken or shrimp and a creamy dressing like Caesar or ranch.
Poultry
When it comes to poultry, chardonnay is a great option. The wine’s acidity helps to cut through the richness of the meat, while its fruit flavors complement the natural sweetness of the poultry. Pair a light-bodied chardonnay with roasted or grilled chicken, or a full-bodied chardonnay with creamy chicken dishes like chicken Alfredo or pot pies.
Pasta
Chardonnay can also be a great choice when it comes to pasta dishes. The wine’s acidity and fruit flavors pair well with creamy pasta sauces like Alfredo or carbonara. Avoid pairing chardonnay with tomato-based pasta sauces, which can clash with the wine’s flavor profile. Instead, opt for dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or linguine with white clam sauce.
Cheese
If you’re a cheese lover, chardonnay is a great wine to pair with your favorite cheeses. The wine’s buttery and oaky flavors pair well with rich, creamy cheeses like brie or camembert. For a more complex pairing, try pairing a full-bodied chardonnay with aged cheddar or gouda.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chardonnay is a versatile wine that can be paired with a variety of foods. When choosing what to drink chardonnay with, consider the weight of the food and any sauces or seasonings used in the dish. Seafood, salads, poultry, pasta, and cheese are all great options to pair with chardonnay. With this knowledge in mind, you can confidently choose the perfect bottle of chardonnay to complement your meal.
