In this article, we are going to talk about what wines pair well with spicy food like curry and why.
Spicy food and curries are often associated more with beer than wine, but wine can be paired successfully with spicy food.
People vary greatly in their preferences and sensitivities, so there is no clear-cut answer to which wines go best with which dishes.
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The effect of chili on wine and vice versa
Chili is a touch sensation rather than a taste sensation and levels of sensitivity vary from person to person. It also varies from person to person how pleasant or unpleasant it feels.
Chili heat in food increases the perception of the following in wine:
- Acidity
- Bitterness
- Alcohol burn
It decreases the perception of the following in wine:
- Body
- Richness
- Fruitiness
- Sweetness
The level of alcohol in wine increases the intensity of the reaction to chili.
Some people enjoy this and others not so much!
Wines that pair well with spicy or Indian food
Tannins in wine can increase the perception of spice and therefore may overpower spicy dishes, as well as accentuate bitterness.
Generally speaking, spicy dishes pair well with white wines or low-tannin red wines.
Both should be low in alcohol to limit alcohol burn and bitterness for sensitive tasters.
As mentioned previously, chili can also reduce the fruitiness and sweetness in wine, so you may wish to choose wine with higher levels of both.
It is often desirable for the flavor intensities of wine and food to match; however, in some circumstances, intensely flavored food, like a curry, can be paired successfully with a lightly flavored wine.
Best red wines with curry
Pinot Noir pairs well with curry and spicy food because of its light body, bright acidity, and smooth tannins.
The wine’s delicate red fruit flavors—cherry, raspberry, and strawberry—complement the heat and complex spices in curry without overwhelming the palate.
Unlike heavier red wines, Pinot Noir’s low tannins won’t clash with the spice, and its acidity helps balance out the richness of dishes like creamy coconut curries or tomato-based sauces.
Best white wine with curry
Riesling, especially off-dry Riesling, is an excellent match for spicy food. Its natural sweetness and fruity notes helps to cool the heat from spices, while the high acidity cuts through the richness of dishes like a spicy curry.
Pinot Gris also pairs well with spicy food because of its high acidity and light sweetness.
Its fruity flavors and crisp finish is a great choice when you want a wine that won’t overpower bold spices.
Hotter the curry the better?
If you want to turn up the heat, try:
- An oaked Chardonnay
- Australian Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvèdre (GSM)
