Which Wine to Pair with Paella?
This quintessential Spanish dish pairs well with white wine, but not exclusively! The flavors know no boundaries.
Ah, paella. A dish where land and sea meet. Chicken, chorizo, mussels, shrimp, and squid are tenderly treated with saffron rice, peppers, and tomatoes. Originating from Valencia, the paella gets its name from the Valencian word for frying pan. Whether it’s paella royale, seafood, or vegetarian, there are many variations of this Spanish specialty. Like many peasant dishes, the recipe varies by season and location. But what should you drink with this delight from the Iberian Peninsula? Paella abounds with flavors and textures, from spices and seafood to acidity. For such a dish, it’s best to choose a lively and harmonious wine.
White Wine
Traditionally, white wine is recommended for paella. Its acidity, minerality, and fruitiness can cut through the heaviness of the cooking oil and the richness of the charcuterie in the dish. Chemistry in cooking is crucial for matching food and wine.
For a mixed paella (seafood and meat) or even a vegetarian paella, classic Spanish wines like Albariño or Verdejo work very well. Albariño stands out with its aromatic profile of citrus and stone fruits such as pear or apricot. These notes complement the briny flavors of seafood. Verdejo, often associated with Sauvignon Blanc, is more herbal and features aromas of bitter almond, citrus, and sometimes tropical fruits. Verdejo balances the acidity of tomatoes and peppers.
A Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or an Australian Chardonnay can also enhance your paella. Chardonnay, with its roundness, will soften the spicier notes of the dish, while Sauvignon Blanc, with its bright acidity, will provide a refreshing lift. At Vinodelice, we recommend a Chardonnay from Rising from the Yarra Valley in Australia. This wine, with its vibrant freshness and vivid aromas, is perfect for accompanying your paella, highlighting its flavors and offering an exceptional tasting experience. If you prefer French wines, choose these white grape varieties to accompany this traditional Valencian recipe.
Red Wine
Red wine is less common for paella but still a valid option. If you opt for red, choose light reds with soft tannins. Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Gamay, or even Cinsault are varieties that can soften the spices and heat of the chorizo. If you choose the vegan version, the same goes. These reds pair well with the saffron and the acidity of the vegetables.
For a light red, opt for a Beaujolais or a New Zealand Pinot Noir. At Vinodelice, we suggest Burn Cottage Moonlight Race, a light Pinot Noir from New Zealand. This wine, with its delicate aromas and silky texture, is perfect for pairing with your paella, enhancing its flavors while offering a refined tasting experience. The pepper, red fruits, and soft tannins won’t overshadow the dish’s flavors.
If you prefer wines with a bit more body, a Tempranillo from the Rioja region is for you. This Spanish wine is more earthy and animalistic, blending well with the dish's spices.
Rosé and Orange Wine
Indeed, you can also pair paella with rosé and orange wine. A vibrant, mineral, and slightly fruity and peppery rosé will highlight the sweet and sour notes of this Iberian delight. Look for rosés with character from the Rhône Valley, Provence, Languedoc, or even Patrimonio in Corsica. We recommend Domaine Sainte-Marie Cuvée Paparazzi Rosé from Provence. This rosé, with its rich profile and assertive personality, pairs perfectly with paella, enhancing the dish’s flavors and adding an elegant touch to your meal.
For the adventurous, an orange wine, with its soft but present tannins and notes of citrus, dried fruits, and almonds, can surprise the palate and bring additional nuances to this culinary experience.
No matter your choice, embrace the spirit of paella. A traditional dish, somewhat mixed, where everyone makes it their way with their preferred ingredients. Whether you choose a traditional white wine or a bolder option like rosé or orange wine, it’s all about balance.
Enjoy your tasting!
