Les Vins de Sélection
I try to make a point of talking a bit about pairing food and wine, because to me it seems to be about balance. What I mean by that is your wine shouldn’t overpower your dish, nor should the food overpower the wine. So it’s that simple. Sort of. And if you have been successful with your pairing, then your wine brings out the best in the dish and vice-versa. Balance. The ying and the yang. I certainly am not an expert and there people out there who make a tidy sum pairing. I merely want to suggest a possible course of action. Some old consulting habits come out here and there. Let me start with this list and you may find something that resonates well with you – for whatever reason. That’s fine because in the end it’s all personal, it’s all about what you like. I think one thing you have to be careful of is not to try and have your dish overtake your wine – if at all possible. These selections
From the Burgundy region, a nicely chilled Pouilly-Fuissé Labouré-Roi 2006 or 2007; alternatively a Montrachet or a Meursault. From the same region a Domaine Christian Moreau Pere et Fils Chablis Chardonnay 2007.
I would also suggest a very nice Cote du Rhone or move up a tad and go for a Chateauneuf du Pape. That would work equally well. From Spain, a Casa de la Ermita Rosado 2007 or 2008 Rosé Wine.
Lastly, from Italy, St Michael Eppan Pinot Grigio Alto Adige 2007 or 2008; also an Amarone which is typically a rich dry red wine made from partially dried grapes. It’s a strong wine and will stand up nicely to a dish like Poulet au Porto.
From the Bordeaux Region, a good white Bordeaux , typically made from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle is another good choice. A Mouton Cadet 2006 or a 2007 Chateau Du Seuil, White Bordeaux Graves are both excellent choices. If you want to get a little racier, you want to mix things up then consider the 96-98 vintage years. Excellent.
In closing, don’t forget about a good Champagne as a selection to think about. Remember Champagne is not just uncorked to celebrate a very special occasions but rather to celebrate life. Daily. Marvelous!