An Expert Reveals The Best Food And Homegrown Wine Combinations

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Do you struggle to find the right wine to go with your sushi? Or do you want to have biryani with wine but are not sure which one to pair it with? We get it, the world of food and wine combinations can be daunting. While you can pretty much have whatever you want with whichever wine you like, it is always better to have a few tricks up your sleeve that can really bring out and harmonise the flavours.

So, we spoke to Apurva Gawande, a graduate of Wine and Management from Le Cordon Bleu Paris, who is also a passionate wine consultant, educator, and curator to help you start out on the basics of food and wine pairing. Here's what she had to say:

Welcome to the exciting world of wine and food pairing! As globalisation continues to bridge cultures and tastes, it is no surprise that Indian wines have made their mark on the international stage. With a rich history of winemaking and an abundance of diverse flavours, Indian wines offer a unique and delightful experience when paired with world cuisine.

When it comes to pairing Indian wines with world cuisine, the key lies in finding harmonious flavours and complementary textures. Indian wines often possess a natural affinity for the bold and aromatic spices found in Indian cuisine. However, their versatility allows them to create intriguing pairings with dishes from various culinary traditions.

Pro-Tip: 6 best homegrown wines under INR 2,000.

Sula Sauvignon Blanc

Sula Sauvignon Blanc

Sula Sauvignon Blanc

The vibrant acidity and tropical fruit notes of a well-chilled Sauvignon Blanc from Sula’s beautifully complement the aromatic character of Thai cuisine and the delicate flavours of Japanese sushi, or even seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp skewers, seared scallops, or ceviche. The wine's acidity helps cut through the richness of seafood, while its fruitiness enhances the flavours.

Grover Zampa Shiraz Signet

Grover Zampa Shiraz Signet

Grover Zampa Shiraz Signet

The earthy and spiced character of Grover Zampa’s Shiraz Signet can harmonise with the rich and savoury flavours of Mediterranean cuisine such as lamb tagines or roasted vegetables. Aged in 1,000 litres Foudre, the wine has a strong structure with powerful tannins, which also complement Indian lamb dishes like laal maas and lamb biryani.

Sula Dindori

Sula Dindori

Sula Dindori

Indian wines exhibit a remarkable ability to harmonise with various European cuisines as well. For instance, Sula’s Dindori, a buttery and oaked Chardonnay, can complement a creamy risotto or a rich, indulgent pasta dish.

Chandon Rosé

Chandon Rosé

Chandon Rosé

Sparkling wines from India have also delivered on being food-friendly wines. The Chandon Rosé, a sparkling wine from the house of Moët and Henessy, is known for its delicate flavours, crisp acidity, and notes of red berries, making it a versatile choice for pairing with light appetisers such as bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, smoked salmon canapés, or goat cheese crostini. The wine's acidity and fruitiness complement these delicate flavours.

Fratelli J’noon

Fratelli J’noon

Fratelli J’noon

If you enjoy Indian cuisine, you will discover that Indian wines can actually heighten your dining experience—remember what grows together, goes together! The robust tannins of Fratelli’s J’noon can stand up to the complexity of spiced curries or biryanis, while a fruity and racy Riesling from Vallonné can balance the heat of a spicy vindaloo, or that of a prawn gassi.

Sula Rasa Zinfandel

Sula Rasa Zinfandel

Sula Rasa Zinfandel

For Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or burritos, consider pairing them with a medium-bodied red wine such as Sula’s Rasa Zinfandel. This wine can enhance the robust and char-grilled flavours of the meal while contributing to a velvety mouthfeel.

Don't Hesitate To Experiment

In addition to the traditional pairing options, don't hesitate to experiment and let your taste buds guide you. Indian wines are often crafted to offer a balance between Old World and New World styles, making them versatile companions for a wide array of global flavours. So, whether you are enjoying a bowl of pasta, savouring the flavours of sushi, or indulging in the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine, don't overlook the possibility of pairing them with diverse and exciting Indian wines. Cheers to exploring the captivating fusion of Indian wines and world cuisine!