Starters

Guide to Choosing a Wine for an Appetizer

Choosing the right wine to accompany an appetizer can be tricky, but the goal is to balance flavors and textures to gently prepare the palate for the main course. Here are some suggestions for pairing wines with various appetizers.

1. Foie Gras

With its rich and creamy texture, foie gras pairs wonderfully with a sweet, luscious wine that complements its finesse. Wines to consider are:

• Sauternes: This sweet Bordeaux wine, with notes of honey, dried apricot, and exotic fruits, perfectly enhances foie gras.
• Monbazillac: Another sweet wine from Bordeaux, more affordable, with flavors of dried fruits and spices that pair beautifully with foie gras.
• Coteaux du Layon: A sweet wine from the Loire Valley, balanced and fruity, a great match for foie gras’s delicate flavors.

2. Pâtés and Terrines

Pâtés and terrines vary depending on the ingredients, but here are general recommendations based on the preparation:

• Pork or Poultry: For pâtés or terrines made with white meat or pork, choose a light red wine with soft tannins. Some good options include:

  • Beaujolais Villages: A light, fruity, and easy-to-drink wine, ideal for white meat-based appetizers.
  • Swiss Pinot Noir: An elegant, subtle wine with red fruit notes, perfect for delicate terrines.

• Game or More Pronounced Meats: If the pâté or terrine has a more pronounced game flavor, go for a more structured red wine:

  • Crozes-Hermitage: A Rhône wine made from Syrah, light and spicy, perfect for game flavors.
  • Coteaux du Languedoc: A southern French wine with complexity and aromas of dark fruits and spices.
  • Humagne Rouge: A Swiss wine, fruity and spicy, which pairs well with game terrines.
  • Sangiovese: An Italian wine with good acidity, excellent with game dishes, particularly those with herbs and spices.

3. Wine and Soups

In general, soups are not the best pairing with wine. The two liquid states (soup and wine) may clash, leading to a feeling of fullness early in the meal. If you do wish to serve a wine with a soup, opt for a light, crisp white wine like Muscadet or Alvarinho, which won’t overwhelm the palate.

4. Salads and Wine

Salads are a bit more difficult to pair with wine. Dressings, particularly those based on vinegar, can make the pairing tricky due to the acidity of the vinegar, which can throw off the wine. If serving a salad, it’s best to keep your aperitif wine to accompany the dish, rather than opening a new bottle.

General Tips:

• White Wines: As a general rule, go for dry, fruity whites for lighter appetizers. Wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, or Riesling are versatile options.

• Temperature: Ensure that wines are served at the correct temperature. Whites and rosés should be served chilled (10-12°C), while light reds should be slightly chilled (12-14°C) to preserve their freshness.