What better way is there to enjoy a meal or a tantalizing dessert than pairing it with the perfect wine? Of course, to get the greatest enjoyment out of your experience, you should strive to achieve the proper balance of flavors in your food and wine. While you may absolutely love your go-to pairing of steak and cabernet sauvignon, why not embark on a culinary adventure and think outside the box once in a while? Treat your taste buds to these 6 unusual (and unique!) food and wine pairings!

Sushi and Sparkling Rosé

Set aside the sake! Your favorite rolls have the perfect partner – the bubbly, effervescent, sparkling rosé. Its acidity enhances the flavors and texture of the raw fish while the carbonation cleanses your palate, preparing it for another savory bite. Having Thai or Vietnamese food? Sparkling rosé is an excellent choice as it adds even more flavor to these Asian dishes!

Chili and Shiraz

Feel that chill in the air? Fall is almost here, which means it’ll be time to enjoy bold, flavorful bowls of chili! Spicy chili and a full-bodied shiraz complement one another, giving your dining experience an irresistible punch. Shiraz’s peppery finish will also enrich and extend the chili’s spice and earthy flavors on your palate.

Southern Comfort Food and Cabernet Franc

If you’re looking for the right wine to pair with those smoky barbecue dishes, corn grits, and creamed spinach, try a glass of cabernet franc. With its distinct green peppercorn aroma, it makes the perfect match for tomato-based dishes and sides of rich vegetables. As for fried chicken, cabernet franc still works nicely, but if we’re feeling a little fancy, we tend to lean toward a refreshing brut Cava. Its zesty flavors and fine bubbles make for a smooth mouthfeel, giving lager a run for its money.

Bacon and Chardonnay

Usually, red wines complement red meats and white wines suit white meats, but there’s always an exception to the rule – and this is it! The acidity of a full-bodied chardonnay will balance the fattiness of the bacon, and its smoky flavor will add a richness to this breakfast staple. Feeling cheesy instead? Chardonnay also goes great with a ripe, mature bleu cheese!

Pumpkin Pie and Tawny Port

Move over, after-dinner coffee! A delectable tawny port is the perfect pairing for pumpkin pie. This smooth wine enhances the sweetness and rich spices of the beloved fall dessert. Besides, tawny ports spend a lot of time inside oak barrels, giving them a nutty profile. We can’t imagine a better match for pumpkin pie than that!

Chocolate Ice Cream and Pinot Noir

You know that wine and chocolate have always been a classic pair, but what about your favorite summertime treat? A light red pinot noir is a delightful and romantic complement to a creamy scoop (or two) of chocolate ice cream. The wine’s floral notes of red berries go perfectly with the richness of the ice cream. Take it up a notch by adding a few fresh raspberries to this already perfect combination.

Sampling unconventional food and wine pairings can expand your palate and enhance your dining experience. When it comes to finding the perfect wine pairing, you can discover your new favorite when dining at the Grapevine Grill at Chaumette Vineyards & Winery. Make your reservations today to take your experience from ordinary to extraordinary!