Wine and Munchies

Movie night just got a whole lot classier!  Just because you’re chowing down on some casual fare doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a perfectly paired wine.  Whether its a date night in, girls night or simply enjoying your own spectacular company, we’ve got a great list of wines to pair with your favourite snacks!

Potato Chips and Sparkling Wine

This might sound like a strange pairing, but it’s actually a perfect match. The bubbles from the sparkling wine cut through the salt on the chips, thus allowing you to really appreciate the flavors in both the wine and your midnight snack. It also works well with French Fries!  If you like your fries with a touch of truffle oil or shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, you’re in for a special treat. Talk about a gourmet snack!

Popcorn and Chardonnay

Movie nights are synonymous with delicious, buttery popcorn.  So it should come as no surprise that popcorn’s perfect pairing is a chardonnay.  Just like your popcorn, chardonnay can have a buttery taste yet crisp finish, making this duo a perfect match.

Pepperoni Pizza and Sangiovese

Pepperoni has a variety of spices and no fat at all (shhh).  This spicy meat imbues its flavor throughout the cheese on every slice. To counteract it, you’ll need a strong wine with intense flavors to counterbalance ‘the pepperoni effect’. Sangiovese is a classic choice as the most popular red grape of Italy.

Chips and Salsa and Riesling

Riesling perfectly pairs with the salt, acidity and spice of chips and salsa.  It’s residual sweetness and lower “alcoholic warmth” combines well with the spice of the salsa and saltiness of the chips, reducing the chances of an explosive burning sensation in your mouth.  Additionally, the moderate acidity of the Riesling complements the salivation-inducing qualities of the salsa’s matching acidity.

Chicken Wings and Zinfandel

The dark, yet jammy, Zinfandel plays well with saucy meats.  It has enough boldness and structure to hold up against some spicy buffalo wings.  Just be careful not to drop your glass with those saucy fingers!

Pretzels and Riesling or Pinot Noir

The lemon zest and green apple of the Riesling pairs well with the salt and spice of pretzels and cheese.  Plus, why not pair this German snack with its ‘vined’ counterpart?!  If you’re opting for the more traditional pretzels with mustard, try it with a Pinot Noir.  It’s bright raspberry notes, earthiness and mild acidity make a great companion for the strong flavour of the mustard.