Easter heralds springtime! Think tulips, daffodils, bunnies and chocolate. But when it comes to Easter dinner, what wines should you serve?
The answer? It depends.
Here's some suggestions based on the main course to help you master a perfect pairing. Bon Appetit and Happy Easter!
Lamb Whether a slow-roasted leg, or herb-crusted rack, a spicy Syrah will maximize your pairing success. Lamb is earthy, with rustic, gamey flavours and often prepared with spice and incorporating some smoke from the grill. Syrah from the northern Rhône, with its own peppery spice and bacon-smoke notes, echos the flavours of the meat, while the grippy tannin helps with the rich, fat of the cut.
Ham Glazed and spiral hams, with their sweet and salty flavour, are often served with mustard, to brighten the chewy richness of the meat. With mustard and pork, a German Riesling or French Alsatian wine, will complement the meal. Riesling, hopefully with a touch of sweetness, is the natural – and delicious – choice here.
Turkey Like a Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, turkey is only used as a vehicle for the sauces,gravies and side dishes that accompany it. So, pair with a wine to either mimic the flavour and feel of cranberry sauce – bright, tart, and juicy, or the rich and weighty gravy. Pinot Noir sticks out as the former, Chardonnay as the latter. Perhaps serve both and may the best wine match win!
Fish Rich fish like baked or grilled salmon, trout, or even sardines and anchovies. These fish are laced with fat, which is why they’re often served with palate-cleansing lemon slices. In honour of spring, pair with a rosé like a medium weight Tavel, typically a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and Mouvedre. These pink wines are fleshier than their Provençal counterparts, but still have that bright, palate cleansing acidity which works well with oily fish. A Burgundian style Pinot Noir also pairs beautifully with salmon.
What about Chocolate?
This can be tricky! Champagne, Prosecco or Cava IE. Bubbles is often a great go to for chocolate. The chart below has some good suggestions to try if you’re wanting a real tasting experience! Have fun and Happy Easter!
