THE PERFECT COMBINATION

Best Food and Wine Pairings for Verdelho, Semillon, and Chardonnay

White wines offer a refreshing and versatile range of flavors that can complement a variety of dishes. At Running Horse Wines, our selection of Verdelho, Semillon, and Chardonnay showcases the unique characteristics of each varietal, providing the perfect accompaniments to diverse culinary creations. Here’s a guide to some of the best food pairings for these popular white wines.

Verdelho

Verdelho is known for its vibrant acidity and tropical fruit flavors, making it a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Perfect Pairings:

• Seafood: Verdelho’s crispness and fruity notes are a perfect match for seafood dishes such as grilled prawns, scallops, and fish tacos. The wine’s acidity complements the briny flavors of the sea.
• Spicy Asian Cuisine: The tropical fruit flavors in Verdelho pair well with spicy dishes like Thai green curry or Vietnamese pho, balancing the heat with refreshing acidity.
• Light Salads: A fresh garden salad with citrus vinaigrette or a quinoa salad with mango and avocado complements Verdelho’s bright and zesty profile.

Semillon

Semillon is celebrated for its versatility, offering a range of flavors from citrus and apple to honey and nutty notes as it ages.

Perfect Pairings:

• Roast Chicken: The citrus and herbal notes in Semillon pair wonderfully with roasted chicken seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme, enhancing the dish’s savory flavors.
• Seafood Risotto: The creamy texture of seafood risotto, especially those with prawns or clams, pairs beautifully with Semillon’s bright acidity and subtle fruitiness.
• Vegetable Dishes: Grilled asparagus or artichokes with lemon butter bring out the delicate flavors in Semillon, highlighting its fresh and vibrant character.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wines, known for its wide range of styles from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery.

Perfect Pairings:

• Grilled Salmon: The rich, buttery texture of Chardonnay complements the oily and flavorful nature of grilled salmon, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
• Creamy Pasta Dishes: Chardonnay pairs well with creamy pasta sauces like Alfredo or carbonara, as its acidity cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized flavors of roasted vegetables such as butternut squash, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes enhance the nutty and toasty notes of oaked Chardonnay.

Tips for Pairing White Wines

• Consider Acidity: High-acid wines like Verdelho and Semillon pair well with dishes that have a bit of acidity, such as citrus or vinegar-based sauces.
• Match Richness: For richer dishes, choose a fuller-bodied wine like Chardonnay to match the weight and texture of the food.

At Running Horse Wines, our selection of white wines offers something for every palate and occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch or a decadent dinner, these pairings will enhance your dining experience and highlight the unique flavors of our wines.