Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairing: Basics & More
Sauvignon Blanc is a great wine to enjoy by itself on a warm summer day. It also pairs nicely with that light seafood and green vegetables. Because Sauvignon Blanc is medium-bodied white wine, it pairs well with lightly prepared dishes, flavors, and seasonings.
When pairing food with wine it’s important to consider the meal preparations and seasonings. This is what can make or break a food and wine pairing. Because of this, we will break it down into two layers. The first layer is the Meal Base focusing on the protein. The second layer considers food preparation, seasonings, and sides.
Sauvignon Blanc Taste Characteristics
Before diving into the pairing options, it's important to identify the profile of the wine. This will help guide you to the best food pairings.
Sauvignon Blanc is a medium-bodied, dry white wine with high acidity. It has notes of citrus like lemon and green apple along with herbaceous notes of green bell pepper and cut grass.
The herbaceous notes mean Sauvignon Blanc pairs very well with green vegetables and fresh herbs. The high acidity means it pairs well with seafood and citrusy sauces and light vinaigrettes.
Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairing Matches
These food pairing matches will bring out the best in your Sauvignon Blanc.
Layer 1: Meal Base
Seafood like oysters, clams, scallops, crab, and shrimp. Fish like halibut, trout, and tilapia.
White meat like chicken, turkey, and pork.
Layer 2: Seasonings & Sides
Green vegetables like artichokes, asparagus, and green beans.
Uncooked vegetables like tomatoes and leafy greens.
Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, cilantro, and mint.
Alliums like garlic and onion.
Citrusy flavors like lemon, lime, and grapefruit.
Try Sauvignon Blanc with dishes like:
Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairing Clashes
Layer 1: Meal Base
Red meat like fatty steaks will overwhelm Sauvignon Blanc.
Layer 2: Seasonings & Sides
Buttery sauces or heavy sauces will be too creamy and heavy. These will pair better with an oaked Chardonnay.
Heavy seasonings and sauces like BBQ and spicy curries.
Black beans and mushrooms.
Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairing Summary
Sauvignon Blanc has that high acidity and herbaceous notes that help it to pair well with a variety of light summer fare. It’s even a great appetizer wine when paired with goat cheese.
Try these matches right alongside the foods that clash and see for yourself what works and what doesn’t. Bon Appétit!
