How to Host the Perfect Wine + Food Pairing: Tips from Page Cellars
At Page Cellars, we believe that wine is best enjoyed when it’s paired with the right food. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or planning a large celebration, knowing how to match our wines with your favorite dishes can elevate your entire dining experience. Rooted in the rich terroir of Washington’s Red Mountain AVA, our passion for winemaking shines through every bottle. Here are a few simple yet powerful tips to help you pair our wines like a pro.
1. Start with the Wine’s Weight & Body
Match the weight of your wine to the richness of your dish. For lighter plates—think fresh salads, seafood, or crisp appetizers—reach for a glass of our Unoaked Chardonnay. Its bright, clean profile makes it an ideal partner for these delicate dishes. For a heartier entrée, such as steak or a rich pasta, consider a more robust red like our Preface Cabernet Sauvignon or Tryst Cabernet Blend, both offering deep, concentrated flavors that stand up to bold, savory meals.
Pro Tip: The more intense the dish’s flavors, the more structured your wine should be.
2. Balance Flavors, Not Intensity
Pair wines and foods by balancing their inherent flavors rather than simply matching intensity. When your dish includes tangy or acidic ingredients, the lively notes in our Unoaked Chardonnay provide a refreshing counterpoint. On the other hand, if your meal features subtle sweetness—as in glazed pork or roasted vegetables—a smooth red like our Columbia Valley Merlot or Lick My Lips Merlot can harmonize beautifully without overpowering the dish.
3. Contrast or Complement: It’s Up to You
There are two schools of thought in wine pairing:
Contrasting Pairings: For an unexpected twist, try pairing our Brut Sparkling Rosé with spicy appetizers or fried foods. Its effervescence and crisp finish can cut through richer, zestier flavors, offering a delightful contrast.
Complementary Pairings: Alternatively, enhance the flavors already present in your dish. For instance, the earthy tones of a mushroom risotto pair wonderfully with the savory nuances of our Cabernet Franc, elevating both the food and the wine.
Pro Tip: Experiment with both approaches to discover new flavor combinations and create an interactive dining experience!
4. Keep Tannins in Check
Tannins provide structure and a slight dryness to red wines, making them excellent partners for fatty or protein-rich dishes. Wines like our Mourvèdre or Preface Cabernet Sauvignon pair beautifully with grilled meats, stews, or creamy sauces. The fat in these dishes softens the tannins, creating a well-balanced mouthfeel.
Pro Tip: Avoid pairing high-tannin wines with overly acidic or spicy dishes to prevent any clash of flavors.
5. Don’t Forget About Texture
Texture plays a crucial role in pairing. Crisp wines such as our Unoaked Chardonnay are perfect with crunchy salads, lightly battered seafood, or even crispy fried appetizers. Meanwhile, the velvety finish of our red blends—like Tryst Cabernet Blend or Rival Merlot Blend—enhances the creaminess of a pasta dish or the smoothness of a cheese platter.
6. Consider the Occasion
Your pairing choices can set the tone for your event. For casual gatherings, a charcuterie board paired with our Rosé of Sangiovese or a glass of Columbia Valley Merlot creates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. For special occasions, curate a multi-course meal that starts with a refreshing Brut Sparkling Rosé for appetizers, moves on to a bold red like Preface Cabernet Sauvignon for the main course, and finishes with a lingering glass of Lick My Lips Merlot.
7. Plan Your Pairing Around the Season
Let the seasons guide your pairing choices. In cooler months, hearty, warming dishes such as roasts and stews call for robust reds like our Mourvèdre or Zinfandel. In warmer weather, the light, crisp nature of our Chardonnay or Rosé of Sangiovese is the perfect match for fresh, seasonal produce, seafood, and vibrant salads.
Pro Tip: Use seasonal ingredients to highlight the natural flavors of both your dish and your wine.
Ready to Host Your Own Pairing Event?
Feeling inspired? Hosting a wine and food pairing event is a fun and interactive way to share your love for great wine. Whether you’re planning a private tasting, an intimate dinner party, or a special celebration, our team at Page Cellars is here to guide you through the perfect pairings with our exceptional selection.
Contact us today to learn more about renting our space or setting up a private tasting experience that will leave your guests talking about the perfect pairings long after the last glass is poured.
Cheers to unforgettable pairings!
— The Page Cellars Team