Wine Inspiration for that Special Evening

Everybody knows the rule: “white wine with white meat and fish, red wine with red meat or smoked foods.” But it’s not always quite that simple! Alto Adige’s gourmet world enjoys trying out new combinations in order to come up with fitting wines to accompany special foods. It fundamentally has to be decided whether the wine is to have a harmonious effect with the dish or whether the desire is to intentionally form a contrast in taste.

What is helpful for the selection of the wine is the flavor and the consistency of the sauces that are to be served with the dishes. Depending upon the consistency, aroma, and acidity, just the right wine can be chosen for every dish, because in addition to the color of the meat, it is above all else the sauces that play an important role. Thus it is no longer a rare thing that with light monkfish, an Alto Adige Pinot Noir is recommended, or with hearty veal dishes, an Alto Adige Chardonnay is served.

We would like to provide you with some helpful hints along the way:

• With light appetizers and fish dishes, an Alto Adige Pinot Bianco is the ideal companion.
• Alto Adige Pinot Grigio can be recommended above all else with mushroom dishes, fish, and shellfish.
• In combination with Asian cuisine, pâtés, foie gras, or shellfish, Alto Adige Gewürztraminer is an excellent presence.
• Alto Adige Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect companion with asparagus dishes, grilled vegetables, dishes with fish, and goat cheese.
• The classic Alto Adige Schiava (Vernatsch) is particularly suitable for combination with snacks and appetizers. In addition, it is the perfect accompaniment to Alto Adige speck, cheese, and cold cuts.
• With game dishes, red meats, and dishes with aged cheeses, we recommend an Alto Adige Lagrein.
• Alto Adige Red Muscat tastes especially good with desserts that include cinnamon or poppy seeds and is also an outstanding accompaniment for traditional fried Krapfen pastries.

Even if there are relatively clear guidelines with wine pairings, they have loosened up considerably over the past few years. In the end, the choice of the right wine depends upon personal taste.

Just put together your own desired menu – you can find plenty of inspiration for that on the Alto Adige Info Website.