Grilled, baked, smoked, or even served raw as sushi, salmon is delicious. But one question that many people have is what wine goes best with a delicious salmon dish? In this blog post, we will explore some of the best wine pairings for salmon, taking into account the different ways it is prepared and the flavors that come with it.
Light and Fresh Whites
If you are having grilled or baked salmon, a light and fresh white wine is a great pairing choice.
Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc are all popular picks. These wines are crisp and acidic and can be the perfect complement to the richness of the fish.
For a Chardonnay, look for a lighter, unoaked version that won’t overpower the salmon. Pinot Grigio is a great option for those who love a zesty and vibrant wine, while Sauvignon Blanc with its herbaceous notes pairs well with salmon seasoned with fresh herbs.
Rosé
The light and refreshing acidity of rosé makes it a perfect pairing with salmon. Its crisp fruitiness and refreshing acidity make the fish’s flavor pop. A dry Rosé with hints of peach and citrus notes is delightful with grilled salmon filling the room with the aroma of cooking fish and bubbles.
Light to Medium-Bodied Red Wines
If you prefer red wine, there are some options that work well with salmon too. Look for light to medium-bodied red wines such as Pinot Noir or Gamay, which are less tannic and have a refreshing acidity that won’t overpower the fish’s flavors. Pinot Noir, in particular, is a popular choice for its fruit-forward and earthy notes.
Sparkling Wine
If you’re serving salmon as an appetizer, you might want to consider pairing it with sparkling wine. A dry Prosecco or Champagne will add a festive touch to your meal. The bubbles are palate-cleansing, and the acidity of sparkling wine helps refresh the palate between bites of the rich salmon.
Tip: Choose A Wine That Complements Your Sauce and Seasoning
The different ways of preparing salmon usually come with different sauces and seasonings. When pairing your wine, consider the sauce and seasoning as prominent flavor profiles that can complement your wine of choice. Pairing a heavy red like a Cabernet Sauvignon with a heavily herbed salmon dish can be too much and overpower the flavors of both.
Wrapping It Up
Choosing the right wine to complement a salmon dish can bring out the best in both and delight your guests.
With this guide, you can take the guesswork out of the equation and confidently serve a wine that works perfectly with your salmon dish. Enjoy your next salmon meal with a carefully selected wine, and elevate your dining experience.
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WINE? WINE NOW! IS THE PLACE TO BE
Wine Now! is a space dedicated to the enjoyment and appreciation of wines from all around the world. We are located in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Contact us today to learn more about our philosophy and our mission.
