One evening my husband and I prepared horseradish honey mustard glazed grilled salmon. We could not decide what to drink--the 2009 Decoy Sauvignon Blanc (79% Sauvignon Blanc, 21% Semillon) or the 2007 Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica (blend of 85% Garnacha 15% Syrah). We decided to open both wines to determine which was the best pairing.
Neither of these two wines are considered classic pairings for salmon. Usually a light, fruity Pinot Noir or a lightly-oaked Chardonnay would be recommended. However, the sweet/spicy glaze on the salmon opens the door for other options.
So what was our verdict? Both wines were excellent matches. Why? The Decoy has nice bright acidity and citrus/lemongrass flavors that are softened by the Semillon grape. Semillon plays a nice supporting role adding soft, subtle flavors and richness to Sauvignon blanc which on its own can be aggressive and acidic. A pure Sauvignon Blanc would not have been as complimentary with this salmon dish, but the blend is superb as it mellows the spicy horseradish.
The Mas Donis has an enticing bouquet of fresh, concentrated, and layered cherry and berry fruit with a little spice from the Syrah. The fleshy fruitiness of this wine is an excellent match with the spicy/sweet glaze and the richness of the salmon.
Neither of these two wines are considered classic pairings for salmon. Usually a light, fruity Pinot Noir or a lightly-oaked Chardonnay would be recommended. However, the sweet/spicy glaze on the salmon opens the door for other options.
So what was our verdict? Both wines were excellent matches. Why? The Decoy has nice bright acidity and citrus/lemongrass flavors that are softened by the Semillon grape. Semillon plays a nice supporting role adding soft, subtle flavors and richness to Sauvignon blanc which on its own can be aggressive and acidic. A pure Sauvignon Blanc would not have been as complimentary with this salmon dish, but the blend is superb as it mellows the spicy horseradish.
The Mas Donis has an enticing bouquet of fresh, concentrated, and layered cherry and berry fruit with a little spice from the Syrah. The fleshy fruitiness of this wine is an excellent match with the spicy/sweet glaze and the richness of the salmon.
Next time you want white wine and your spouse wants red, open a bottle of each and enjoy the conversation that ensues!
No comments:
Post a Comment