Red wine and food—two of life’s greatest pleasures. When paired correctly, they enhance each other, creating a dining experience that is greater than the sum of its parts. At Scott Harvey Wines, we believe that red wine tasting is more than just sipping; it’s about discovering how flavors interact, how the right dish can highlight the best qualities of a wine, and how every meal can become a moment to savor.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just beginning your journey, understanding the art of pairing can take your appreciation of red wine to the next level. Let’s explore how to create perfect pairings that elevate your red wine tasting experience.
The Key to Perfect Pairings
Pairing food with wine is about balance. A good pairing should complement the flavors of both the dish and the wine, enhancing their best qualities. Here are a few basic principles to keep in mind:
- Match intensity – Bold wines pair best with rich, flavorful dishes, while lighter reds work well with more delicate fare.
- Balance acidity – High-acid wines, like Barbera or Sangiovese, shine with tomato-based dishes and tangy sauces.
- Consider tannins – Tannic wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Petit Sirah, need protein-rich foods like steak to soften their structure.
Red Wine Tasting: Exploring Flavor Pairings
When hosting or attending a red wine tasting, pairing your wines with complementary foods can enhance the overall experience. Here are a few of our favorite food pairings with Scott Harvey’s signature red wines:
Zinfandel & Barbecue
Amador County is famous for its old-vine Zinfandels, known for their bold fruit flavors, peppery spice, and smooth tannins. This makes Zinfandel an ideal match for smoky, savory barbecue dishes like slow-cooked ribs, grilled tri-tip, or spicy sausage. The wine’s rich berry notes contrast beautifully with the charred, caramelized flavors of the grill.
View our recipe for burgers that pairs well with Zinfandel.
Barbera & Italian Cuisine
Our Barbera, with its bright acidity and vibrant cherry notes, is a natural pairing for Italian dishes. Think classic pasta with marinara, wood-fired pizza topped with prosciutto and arugula, or creamy risotto with mushrooms. The acidity in the wine cuts through rich sauces and enhances the flavors of fresh ingredients.
View our recipe for brick-oven pizza that pairs well with Barbera.
Syrah & Hearty Stews
For cooler evenings, a bold Syrah is the perfect companion to slow-cooked stews and braised meats. The deep, dark fruit flavors and hints of spice in Syrah complement dishes like beef bourguignon, lamb shanks, or venison stew. Add a side of crusty bread, and you have a perfect pairing.
View our recipe for Rosmary Garlic Ribeye that pairs well with Syrah.
Cabernet Sauvignon & Aged Cheeses
When hosting a red wine tasting, having an assortment of cheeses on hand can make for a fun and interactive experience. A robust Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with aged cheddar, Gouda, or blue cheese. The wine’s firm tannins and deep blackcurrant flavors balance the richness and sharpness of these cheeses.
View our recipe for braised beef cheek wellingtons, mushrooms & chard that pairs well with Syrah.
Elevate Your Red Wine Experience at Scott Harvey Wines
There’s no better way to explore the world of red wine tasting than by visiting a winery where passion and craftsmanship come together. At Scott Harvey Wines, we welcome guests to our tasting room in Amador County to experience our handcrafted reds alongside thoughtfully curated food pairings.
Whether you’re planning a tasting at home or looking for an immersive winery experience, the key to great pairings is experimentation. Try different flavor combinations, take notes on what works best, and most importantly—have fun!
Join us at Scott Harvey Wines to taste our selection of expertly crafted reds and discover your perfect pairing. Whether it’s a bold Zinfandel with smoky barbecue, a lively Barbera with homemade pasta, or a rich Syrah with a comforting stew, we have something for every palate.
Cheers to discovering the perfect food and wine combinations—one sip at a time!