Wine and Mexican food are a combination that can be both exciting and confusing for many. While wine is typically associated with European cuisines, Mexican cuisine has its own unique flavors and ingredients that can make pairing with wine a challenge. However, when done right, the combination can create a harmonious and enjoyable dining experience.
Mexican cuisine is a rich and diverse cuisine that is influenced by a mix of indigenous and Spanish traditions. With its bold and complex flavors, Mexican cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients such as chili peppers, cumin, and oregano, as well as staple ingredients like corn and beans.
There are some key things to keep in mind when choosing a wine to pair with Mexican food. Firstly, it is important to consider the heat level of the dish. Mexican cuisine often features chili peppers, which can add a significant level of heat to a dish. When pairing with wine, it is best to choose a beverage that has a slightly higher acidity to help cut through the heat.
Another factor to consider when pairing wine with Mexican food is the type of drink traditionally associated with the cuisine. Tequila, for example, is a popular alcoholic beverage in Mexico, and it can be difficult to find a wine that pairs well with it. However, there are a few options that can work.
Riesling
Riesling is a light white wine with high acidity and a hint of sweetness. This makes it the perfect pairing for light and mild Mexican dishes, such as ceviche or fish tacos. The Long Shadows Poet’s Leap Riesling 2020 helps to balance the heat from the spices in the dish, while the sweetness adds a complementary flavor to the dish.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a top red wine with a fruity flavor and moderate tannins. This makes it an excellent pairing for dishes with a mild to medium level of heat, such as tacos al pastor or chiles rellenos. The fruity flavors in the Chateau Purcari Limited Edition Pinot Noir 2020, while the moderate tannins provide a good balance between the flavors and the heat.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine with a crisp and refreshing flavor. This wine pairs well with spicy Mexican dishes, such as mole or chiles en nogada, as its high acidity helps to cut through the heat from the spices. The crisp flavor of the Sauvignon Blanc provides a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors in the dish.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel is a medium-bodied red wine with a fruity and spicy flavor. This wine is a good choice for dishes with a medium to high level of heat, such as chili con carne or enchiladas. The fruity and spicy flavors in the Caymus Zinfandel 2019 complement the bold flavors in the dish.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine with bold and complex flavors. This wine pairs well with spicy Mexican dishes, such as mole or chiles en nogada, as its bold flavor can stand up to the bold flavors in the dish. The Bread & Butter Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 have a good balance between the flavors and the heat.
Syrah
Syrah is a best red wine with a bold and spicy flavor. This wine is a good choice for dishes with a high level of heat, such as chili con carne or enchiladas. The bold and spicy flavor of the Syrah complements the bold flavors in the dish, and provide a good balance between the flavors and the heat.
In conclusion, pairing wine with Mexican food can be a challenge, but it is also a fun and exciting opportunity to explore the flavors and ingredients in both the cuisine and the wine. By considering the heat level of the dish, the flavors in the dish, and the traditional drinks associated with the cuisine, it is possible to find a wine that complements and enhances the dining experience. So, the next time you’re enjoying Mexican food, don’t be afraid to experiment with different wine pairings and discover the perfect match for your taste buds.
