When it comes to wine pairinbgs with tacos, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, the type of taco you’re enjoying will greatly influence the wine selection. For classic beef or chicken tacos, a medium-bodied red like Tempranillo or Sangiovese can complement the hearty flavors without overpowering them. If you’re indulging in seafood tacos, such as shrimp or fish, opt for a light and crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño to enhance the delicate flavors.
Key Takeaways
- Thoughtful wine pairings enhance the taco eating experience.
- Wine pairing depends on taco ingredients and their flavor intensities.
- The right wine balances richness, spice, and specific flavor notes in tacos.
What to consider
The first thing to think about is what kind of taco you are having and what cuisine it comes from. There are two main cuisines that taco originates from with the first being Mexican and the second being Tex-Mex, which is a combination of Mexico and Texas.
In Mexican tacos, you’ll see a lot more natural flavorings with a spicier kick whereas Tex-Mex has some American influence in the mexican food so it becomes a fusion dish.
Determining Wine Selection Criteria
Selecting the ideal wine involves evaluating its:
- Acidity: A wine with higher acidity can cut through the richness of fattier meats and cheese.
- Body: The wine’s body should match the heartiness of the taco. Lighter meats such as fish are complemented by lighter-bodied wines.
- Tannins: Wines with lower tannins are generally more versatile, avoiding overbearing clashes with spicy elements.
- Flavor notes: Complementary flavors in the wine can enhance corresponding ingredients in the taco.
A successful pairing acknowledges these elements, leading to a harmonious dining experience.
Types of taco
The type of taco will be what determines the wine you have. Equally, if you are wanting to decide on a taco to have with your wine, then you’re sure to find this guide helpful as well.
There is the perfect wine match no matter if you have a seafruit taco or tacos for your cinco de mayo party.
Breakfast
The breakfast taco is a combination of Mexican and American cuisine and is hugely popular in places such as Texas. Usually made with scrambled eggs, bacon and potatoes, breakfast tacos should be eaten with a refreshing beverage.
Traditionally eaten with sour cream and a tall beer such as Michelada, there are plenty of wine options that you can pluck for as well. The best option is champagne which is light in flavor while still remaining sharp in taste.
For those who want a cheaper option, Chardonnay could work well for that refreshing taste.
We do not recommend to drink wine for breakfast but you can eat a breakfast taco at a suitable time to pair wine with it.
Al Pastor
When it comes to pairing wine with Al Pastor Tacos, the key lies in finding a wine that can balance the bold and vibrant flavors of this classic Mexican dish. With its succulent marinated pork, pineapple chunks black beans, and fragrant spices like cumin and chili powder, Al Pastor Tacos need a wine that can stand up to their intense flavors.
White Wine
One great option is a dry Riesling. Its crisp acidity and citrusy notes can cut through the richness of the taco’s fillings while complementing its fruity components. The slight off-dryness of this white wine also helps to soften the heat of any spicy salsa or jalapeños you might choose to be pairings with your tacos.
Red Wine
For those who prefer red wines, a Zinfandel, pinot noir or cabernet sauvignon are another fantastic choice. Its bold fruit-forward profile pairs exceptionally well with the smoky sweetness of Al Pastor Tacos. Look for one that has moderate to soft tannins, and higher alcohol content as these characteristics will enhance the depth of flavor in both the meat and spices.
Fish Tacos
When it comes to pairing wine with fish tacos, the options are endless. While some may instinctively reach for a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, there are other interesting choices to consider. For instance, an unoaked Pinot Noir can add a delightful twist to your fish taco experience. With its light to medium body and vibrant acidity, it complements the delicate flavors of seafood while adding subtle hints of red fruit that enhance the overall taste.
Sparkling Wine
If you’re looking for an unconventional choice pair wine, why not explore the world of sparkling wines? A dry sparkling rosé pairs astonishingly well with fish tacos. Its effervescence acts as a palate cleanser between bites, while the refreshing notes of strawberries and citrus beautifully balance out the richness in both flavor and texture found in many types of fish used within these delectable street-style treats.
White Wines
Exploring different wine regions can also provide exciting opportunities for pairing with fish tacos. Consider trying a Rías Baixas Albariño from Spain or an Assyrtiko from Greece—their zesty acidity cuts through any heavy sauces or toppings in your taco while enhancing the natural flavors of seafood. These lesser-known varietals challenge our preconceived notions about what wines should be paired with seafood and lead us down unexpected paths towards gastronomic bliss.
Beef Tacos
Pairing wine with food can be a delightful experience, but finding the perfect match for beef tacos can be a bit challenging. The bold flavors and spices of this Mexican delight with shredded cheddar demand a wine that can hold its ground.
Red Wine
One option that shines when paired with beef tacos is Malbec. This red wine from Argentina boasts a rich and velvety texture, with notes of blackberries, plum, and a hint of smokiness. It complements the charred flavors of grilled beef in ground beef tacos almost perfectly, enhancing the overall taste experience.
White Wine
For those seeking a white wine option to pair with their beef tacos, consider Riesling. While it may not be the first choice that comes to mind for Mexican cuisine, this aromatic varietal surprises with its versatility. With its delicate sweetness and prominent acidity, Riesling can cut through the richness of ground beef, while balancing out any spiciness in the dish. The slight sweetness in this German white wine also complements the tangy elements like lime juice or salsa verde often found in beef tacos.
In conclusion, exploring different wine options to make wine pairings with your favorite dishes like beef tacos opens up an exciting world of flavors and combinations. Whether you prefer a robust red like Malbec or an unexpected white like Riesling, there are plenty of choices available to elevate your taco experience. So next time you sit down to enjoy these flavorful treats, don’t forget to bring along a bottle (or two) that will complement their deliciousness and leave you wanting more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of wine goes with tacos?
Depending on what kind of tacos you have, there is always going to be a perfect wine match for it. Surprisingly, there are tacos that are suitable for white, rose and red wines with the general rule being that red wines are suited toward meat tacos and white wine suited for fish tacos. Rose and champagne wines are great for lighter and milder tacos such as breakfast tacos.
Does champagne go with tacos?
It may seem like an odd combination but champagne is known for going really well with champagne, especially if there is salsa or lime on the tacos.
This is because champagne has a sweet flavor which compliments the tarty taste of the tacos. Fish tacos are also a popular choice for putting with champagne.
