Chilean wines offer an incredible range of flavors and styles, making them perfect companions for food pairings. With a rich culinary tradition that draws on indigenous, Spanish, and European influences, Chilean cuisine is as diverse as its wines. From robust reds to crisp whites, there’s a perfect Chilean wine for every dish. In this article, we’ll explore some classic pairings that highlight the best of Chilean wine and food.
Carménère and Empanadas
Carménère, Chile’s signature grape, is known for its deep color, soft tannins, and notes of ripe red fruits, herbs, and a touch of green pepper. This wine pairs exceptionally well with empanadas, one of Chile’s most iconic dishes. Traditional Chilean empanadas are often filled with beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, creating a savory blend of flavors that complements the richness of Carménère. The slight spiciness and earthy tones of the wine balance the hearty meat filling, while its fruit-forward profile enhances the savory and salty elements of the dish.
Sauvignon Blanc and Ceviche
Chile’s long coastline makes seafood a staple of its cuisine, and few dishes are as beloved as ceviche. Made with fresh fish or shellfish, lime juice, onions, and cilantro, ceviche is light, zesty, and full of fresh flavors. A crisp Chilean Sauvignon Blanc is an ideal pairing for ceviche due to its bright acidity and citrus notes, which echo the lime in the dish. The wine’s minerality and green apple flavors also cut through the richness of the seafood, creating a refreshing and balanced experience.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Grilled Meats
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of Chile’s most renowned varietals, particularly from the Maipo Valley. Known for its bold flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and hints of tobacco, it’s a wine that pairs perfectly with the hearty, grilled meats that are popular in Chilean barbecues, known as asados. Whether it’s lamb, beef, or pork, the smokiness from the grill and the charred exterior of the meat are beautifully complemented by the tannic structure and depth of a Chilean Cabernet. The wine’s fruitiness also balances the rich, savory flavors of the meat, creating a pairing that’s bold yet harmonious.
Chardonnay and Pastel de Choclo
For a pairing that highlights Chilean comfort food, look no further than Chardonnay and pastel de choclo, a dish similar to shepherd’s pie but made with a sweet corn topping. Pastel de choclo is a mix of ground beef or chicken, onions, raisins, and olives, topped with a smooth, baked layer of mashed corn. A Chilean Chardonnay, especially one from the Limarí or Casablanca valleys, pairs beautifully with this dish. The wine’s balance of acidity and creamy texture matches the sweet corn while its citrus and stone fruit flavors enhance the savory filling. Whether oaked or unoaked, a Chilean Chardonnay adds a touch of brightness to this rich and comforting dish.
Syrah and Charcuterie
Chilean Syrah is gaining a reputation for its intense fruit flavors, peppery notes, and full-bodied structure. It’s a versatile wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of foods, but one of the best pairings is with charcuterie. The spicy, cured meats like salami or chorizo are complemented by the wine’s pepper and dark fruit flavors. The smokiness of Syrah enhances the richness of the meats, while its tannins and acidity cut through the fat, making each bite and sip a satisfying combination. Add in some aged cheeses and olives, and you’ve got a perfect match for this robust wine.
Pinot Noir and Seafood
Though Pinot Noir is typically associated with red meats or game, Chilean Pinot Noir from cooler regions like Casablanca Valley also pairs beautifully with seafood dishes. The wine’s bright acidity, light tannins, and flavors of red fruit and subtle earthiness are ideal for pairing with salmon or grilled octopus. The delicate flavors of the seafood don’t overpower the wine, while Pinot Noir’s fruitiness and minerality enhance the savory, briny characteristics of the dish.
Conclusion
Chilean wines offer incredible versatility when it comes to food pairings. Whether you’re enjoying a robust red like Carménère with a traditional empanada or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with fresh ceviche, there’s a Chilean wine that enhances every meal. Chile’s diverse geography and rich winemaking tradition provide a perfect foundation for these pairings, allowing wine lovers to embark on a true culinary journey. So next time you open a bottle of Chilean wine, consider pairing it with some of the country’s beloved dishes for an unforgettable dining experience.
