Finding the right wine to pair with your food can be a daunting task, even for the most seasoned wine specialists. But fear not, with a little guidance, everyone can find the perfect match. My former employer Eric, who was the managing director of the wine importing business where I worked for 10+ years in the Netherlands, offered me the solution. When I left the business to pursue my dream of living abroad, he gave me a little book "Welke wijn waarbij" full of wine/food pairing tips that I still use to this day.
Sauvignon Blanc is perhaps the most well-known grape variety from New Zealand. Its zesty, tropical fruit flavours and crisp acidity make it the perfect match for Asian cuisine. The grape is grown throughout the country, with the Marlborough region being the most famous. Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is characterised by its vibrant fruit flavours of passionfruit, lime, and grapefruit, making it an excellent pairing for spicy or aromatic dishes like Thai green curry or Vietnamese pho.
Chardonnay is also a popular grape variety in New Zealand. The country's cool
New Zealand Pinot Noir is grown primarily in the cooler regions of the country, such as Central Otago and Martinborough. The wine's bright acidity, delicate tannins, and flavours of red fruit like cherry and raspberry make it a great pairing for dishes that are rich and earthy, like mushroom stir-fry or slow-cooked beef.
Pinot Gris is a grape variety that is gaining popularity in New Zealand. It is grown primarily in the cooler regions of the country, such as Marlborough and Central Otago. New Zealand Pinot Gris is known for its vibrant acidity and flavors of pear, apple, and spice. This style of Pinot Gris pairs well with dishes that are sweet and sour, such as sweet and sour pork or chicken.
Choosing the right glassware can also enhance your enjoyment of New Zealand wines. For Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris, a white wine glass with a narrow rim is ideal. For Chardonnay, a wider bowl-shaped glass is best, allowing the wine to breathe and open up its aromas. For Pinot Noir, a Burgundy glass with a wide bowl and narrow rim is ideal, allowing the wine to develop its delicate aromas and flavours.
So next time you're enjoying a meal, don't forget to reach for one of our Mount Riley wines, and "Kia mākona"!
Mount Riley
Mount Riley is a family-owned winery located in the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand. They specialise in producing premium, handcrafted wines that are perfect for food pairing. What sets Mount Riley apart is their commitment to sustainability, using organic practices in the vineyards and winery to create wines that are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. With their high-quality wines, well scored at Vivino and available at an affordable price point, Mount Riley is the best buy for those looking to elevate their food pairing experience.
