Utility Players (Pt. 1)
photo 1.
When I plan ahead, I choose the right wine for food pairing, or at least I try. It becomes easier to pair them when I understand the characteristics of the wine, its region, or the varietals. Experiencing how they complement each other and discussing them over supper are among my many simple joys. I relish savoring wine, yet I don’t enjoy feeling drunk. So I usually don’t finish the bottle and save some for the following day to try with another meal. Unlike the first day, the second day allows me to see whether the wine has developed or completely deteriorated overnight. The second day provides more flexibility in my cooking. I experiment with unusual dishes and test their compatibility with the wine or attempt to enhance what I prepared the day before. For example, I might prepare a Korean dish that is not typically paired with wine, or I might adjust a recipe to find a better match.
I enjoy the challenges, the trials, and the errors. However, occasionally, I want to keep it simple and not overthink the concept of a “perfect pairing.” That's when these Utility Players come into play and save the day. Here are a few wines that can complement a broader range of cuisines and are perfect for bringing to dinner parties to please the crowd.
* The listed prices reflect what I paid and may vary depending on the store. I included them to provide a rough idea of the approximate cost.
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Red: 2020 Enderle & Moll Pinot Noir Liaison ($33)
This well-balanced wine effortlessly complements a variety of traditional pairings, showcasing the classic characteristics of Pinot Noir that make it suitable for both simple meals and heavier cuisines. I previously enjoyed it with Chimichurri-marinated swordfish, where the wine harmonized beautifully with the spices and meaty fish.
Recently, I uncorked this bottle while savoring a ribeye steak accompanied by roasted veggies. The wine seamlessly integrated with the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. While I may be somewhat biased as Enderle & Moll is one of my favorite producers, I highly recommend giving this one a chance. You're sure to love it.
Red: 2017 Luis Anxo Rodriguez Vazquez Ribeiro A Torna Dos Pasás Escolma ($75)
This Galician wine was aging beautifully. It was paired with pork skewers and short rib steak the following day, both accompanied by roasted tomatoes and plantains. Despite being two different styles of cuisines, they complemented the wine perfectly, almost tasting like integral parts of the meal. I can also envision it pairing exceptionally well with a heavier dish like Boeuf Bourguignon.
Rosé: 2022 Stein Rosé trocken ($28)
Stein Rosé was incredibly delicious, reminiscent of sipping on strawberry juice. I would highly recommend it for those seeking a pleasant and light option during the cocktail hour. This rosé serves as a stunning alternative for an aperitif. Moreover, I can easily imagine pairing it with lean white fish or baked potatoes.
Red: 2020 Faiveley Mercurey Vieilles Vignes ($36)
Similar to the Enderle & Moll Pinot Noir Liaison, I found this to be an effortlessly enjoyable wine that pairs well with a diverse range of dishes from a cheese board to meaty dishes. It boasts concentrated fruity notes and a well-balanced structure. I also relished sipping on it on its own.
White: 2018 Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Barbara County ($12; 375 ml)
I opened a half bottle of this out of curiosity, spurred by its frequent mention in various wine YouTube videos and blogs as a bang-for-the-buck option. To my surprise, it exceeded my expectations. The noticeable acidity makes it a versatile choice that pairs well with creamy dishes, while the delightful ripe fruit notes make it equally enjoyable as an apéritif. I can picture it serving as an excellent opener for a dinner party.
Red: 2020 Bedell First Crush Red ($20)
Light, refreshing, and exuberant, this wine is best enjoyed when chilled and complements a wide range of cuisines. Personally, I found it particularly delightful when paired with Korean-style BBQ, especially with spicy and savory dishes. The prospect of visiting Bedell in Long Island on a long weekend adds an extra layer of excitement.
As you can see in the photo, some are missing their pictures, which might be a testament to how much I enjoyed them—too caught up in the moment to even snap a photo. These wines make for perfect choices to bring to a dinner party. All the wines I listed are readily available and reasonably priced, except for the Galician red. Whether you're at home or sharing them with friends and family, I encourage you to give them a chance.