At Hope Family Wines, we understand the magic that happens when you combine the right wine with the right seafood. Finding that perfect pairing can enhance your wine while also bringing out flavors in the food you might not have otherwise experienced.
When it comes to wine and food pairings, regardless of the type of wine or the type of food, there is science behind it. Certain reactions in the wine varietals help cut through different aspects of the food. However, the most important thing when pairing wine and food, is that you enjoy the taste of everything.
Just because we recommend certain wines to pair well with certain seafood dishes, doesn’t mean that everyone will love that pairing. It won’t instantly make you a fan of a certain wine varietal that you know you already don’t enjoy. And it certainly won’t make certain dishes taste better if you know they’re not your thing.
That being said, let’s dive into five fantastic wine and seafood pairings that are sure to take your meal to the next level!
Seafood and Wine Pairings
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile and elegant wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of seafood. Its rich, creamy texture and notes of citrus and butter enhance the delicate flavors of striped bass, crab, raw oysters, and lobster.
- Bass: The light, flaky texture of bass pairs wonderfully with the creamy, buttery notes of Chardonnay. Try a simple grilled striped bass with a squeeze of lemon to bring out the wine’s citrus undertones.
- Crab: Whether you’re enjoying a crab salad or freshly steamed crab legs, the bright acidity of Chardonnay cuts through the richness of the crab meat, creating a balanced and refreshing bite.
- Raw Oysters: The minerality and crispness of Chardonnay make it an ideal match for raw oysters. Serve them on the half shell with a mignonette sauce for an delicious appetizer.
- Lobster: Indulge in a classic lobster roll or a butter-poached lobster tail. The buttery Chardonnay complements the lobster’s sweet, succulent meat, making each bite heavenly.
We recommend our Austin Hope Chardonnay.
Riesling
Riesling is a delightful wine that can range from dry to sweet, making it a perfect match for the bold flavors of Asian seafood and spicy dishes. With its bright acidity and hints of fruit, this wine is an excellent choice to help cut through some of those spicier seafood platters.
- Asian Seafood: Think sushi, sashimi, or a spicy Thai seafood curry. The bright acidity and touch of sweetness in Riesling balance the umami and spice, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
- Spicy Flavored Seafood: Spicy shrimp tacos or a Cajun seafood boil are elevated by the cooling, refreshing notes of Riesling. The wine’s fruitiness helps to mellow the heat and bring out the seafood’s natural sweetness.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a light, crisp wine with bright acidity and subtle fruit flavors, making it a perfect companion for crab, lobster, and oysters.
- Crab: Chilled crab cocktail or crab cakes go well with the wine’s acidity and lightness, and will enhance the sweet, tender crab meat, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Lobster: A lobster pasta with a light, lemony sauce pairs beautifully with Pinot Grigio. The wine’s citrus notes complement the lobster’s richness without overwhelming it.
- Oysters: Freshly shucked oysters served with a splash of lemon juice and a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio are a match made in heaven. The wine’s minerality and crispness elevate the briny, ocean flavors of the oysters.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is known for its zesty acidity and fresh, flowery notes, making it an ideal match for fresh crab, raw oysters, and lightly cooked shellfish. Our Austin Hope Sauvignon Blanc is a standout choice for these pairings.
- Crab: A light crab salad with avocado and citrus dressing pairs wonderfully with Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s crispness and citrus notes enhance the crab’s natural sweetness.
- Raw Oysters: Similar to Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc’s acidity and minerality make it a perfect partner for raw oysters. Serve them with a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
- Lightly Cooked Shellfish: Think steamed mussels or clams with garlic and white wine sauce. The bright acidity of Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the dish, creating a balanced and delightful experience.
Pinot Noir and Grenache
While white wines are often the go-to for seafood, certain red wines like Pinot Noir and Grenache can also pair wonderfully with fatty fish. At Hope Family Wines you’ll find our Austin Hope Grenache Paso is perfect for your next seafood feast.
- Salmon: The rich, oily texture of salmon pairs well with the bright acidity and red fruit flavors of Pinot Noir. Try a grilled salmon with a balsamic glaze for a delightful combination.
- Tuna: A seared tuna steak with a sesame crust is delicious with Grenache. The wine’s bold fruit flavors and smooth tannins complement the tuna’s hearty texture.
- Marlin and Swordfish: These meaty fish are excellent with either Pinot Noir or Grenache. Enjoy them grilled with a fresh herb marinade, allowing the wine’s complexity to shine through and enhance the fish’s robust flavors.
Why White Wines Pair Best with Seafood
White wines generally pair better with seafood because of their acidity, lightness, and subtle flavors, which complement rather than overpower the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish. The citrus and mineral notes often found in white wines enhance the freshness and natural sweetness of seafood, creating a harmonious and enjoyable pairing.
In contrast, red wines, with their tannins and bolder flavors, can sometimes clash with the light, delicate nature of seafood. However, as we explored with Pinot Noir and Grenache, there are exceptions when pairing with richer, fattier fish.
Austin Hope Wine and Food Pairings – Seafood
At Hope Family Wines, we take pride in crafting wines that elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a casual seafood feast or a gourmet meal, our wines are designed to bring out the best in every bite.
Remember, the best way to discover your favorite pairings is to experiment and have fun. So, grab a bottle of Austin Hope Wines, whip up your favorite seafood dish, and let the flavor-magic happen!