The Perfect Food Pairings for Burgundy and Bordeaux Wines

By Jennifer Lutrell | Published on 2022-08-31

. Are you looking for the perfect food pairings to go with your Burgundy and Bordeaux wines? Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just getting started in the world of wine, you’ll find this article helpful in finding the perfect food pairings for your Burgundy and Bordeaux wines. We’ll explore the best food pairings for white Burgundy, white Bordeaux, red Bordeaux, and red Burgundy wines, as well as tips for pairing Burgundy and Bordeaux wines. So, if you’re ready to learn more about the art of pairing Burgundy and Bordeaux wines, let’s get started!



A photo of two glasses of red wine, one Burgundy and one Bordeaux, with a plate of cheese and charcuterie in the background.

White Burgundy and Food Pairing

White Burgundy is a classic French wine that is made from Chardonnay grapes. It is a dry, medium-bodied white wine that has a rich, buttery flavor. The perfect food pairing for this type of wine is a light, delicate dish that will not overpower the flavor of the wine. Think of dishes such as grilled fish, roasted chicken, or a light pasta dish.

When pairing white Burgundy with food, it is important to consider the acidity of the wine. White Burgundy has a high acidity, so it is best to pair it with dishes that have a low acidity. For example, creamy sauces, buttery dishes, or dishes with a hint of sweetness are all good choices. The sweetness of the wine will help to balance out the acidity of the food.

When choosing a cheese to pair with white Burgundy, it is important to consider the flavor of the wine. A mild, creamy cheese such as Brie or Camembert will pair nicely with the buttery notes of the wine. For a more intense flavor, try a sharp, aged cheese such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Gruyere. These cheeses will bring out the complexity of the wine and create a delicious pairing.

White Bordeaux and Food Pairing

When it comes to white Bordeaux, the most popular pairing is seafood. The crisp, dry nature of the wine complements the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish. Try pairing a white Bordeaux with a light fish dish, such as grilled salmon or steamed mussels. The acidity in the wine will cut through the richness of the fish, creating a balanced and delicious meal.

For a heartier meal, white Bordeaux pairs well with poultry. The wine's acidity helps to bring out the flavor of the bird, while the subtle oak notes add a layer of complexity. Try pairing a white Bordeaux with roasted chicken or a creamy chicken dish. The wine will also pair nicely with a creamy pasta dish, such as a carbonara or a creamy mushroom sauce.

Vegetarians can also enjoy white Bordeaux. The wine pairs well with a variety of vegetables, such as mushrooms, asparagus, and artichokes. Try pairing a white Bordeaux with a vegetable-based dish, such as a creamy risotto or a vegetable tart. The acidity of the wine will help to bring out the flavors of the vegetables, creating a balanced and flavorful meal.

Red Bordeaux and Cheese Pairing

When it comes to pairing red Bordeaux wines with cheese, the options are endless. From creamy brie to sharp cheddar, there is a cheese to match every Bordeaux. The key is to find a cheese that has enough acidity to balance out the tannins in the wine.

For a classic pairing, try a Cabernet Sauvignon-based Bordeaux with a sharp cheddar. The bold tannins of the Cabernet Sauvignon will be balanced out by the sharpness of the cheese. For a more unique pairing, try a Merlot-based Bordeaux with a creamy brie. The soft tannins of the Merlot will be complemented by the creamy texture of the cheese.

For a truly special pairing, try a Bordeaux blend with a blue cheese. The bold tannins of the blend will be balanced out by the salty, pungent flavors of the blue cheese. This pairing is sure to be a hit with any wine lover.

Red Burgundy and Food Pairing

Red Burgundy, or Pinot Noir, is a light-bodied red wine that is known for its complex flavors and aromas. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, from light fish dishes to hearty stews. When pairing red Burgundy with food, it is important to consider the weight of the dish and the intensity of the wine.

For lighter dishes, such as grilled salmon or roasted chicken, pair the wine with a light-bodied red Burgundy. These wines are typically lower in tannins and have a softer texture. For heartier dishes, such as beef stew or lamb shanks, opt for a fuller-bodied red Burgundy. These wines have more tannins and a richer texture that can stand up to the bold flavors of the dish.

When pairing red Burgundy with cheese, look for cheeses that have a creamy texture and a mild flavor. Soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, and Gouda are all excellent choices. For a more intense flavor, try a blue cheese such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola. These cheeses have a strong flavor that will complement the complexity of the red Burgundy.

Burgundy Wine Pairing Basics

When it comes to pairing food with Burgundy wines, the key is to consider the weight and intensity of the wine. Burgundy wines are typically lighter and more delicate than other wines, so they should be paired with lighter, more delicate dishes. For example, a light, fruity white Burgundy pairs well with seafood, salads, and lighter meats.

When pairing red Burgundy with food, it is important to consider the tannin levels in the wine. Red Burgundy wines tend to have higher tannin levels than other red wines, so they should be paired with dishes that have enough fat and acidity to balance the tannins. This could include dishes like steak, lamb, and game.

When pairing white Burgundy with food, it is important to consider the acidity of the wine. White Burgundy wines tend to have higher acidity levels than other white wines, so they should be paired with dishes that have enough fat and sweetness to balance the acidity. This could include dishes like creamy pasta dishes, rich fish dishes, and creamy cheeses.

White Burgundy Wine Pairing Tips

White Burgundy is a classic French wine that is known for its delicate flavors and aromas. It is a great choice for pairing with food, as its light body and subtle flavors can easily be complemented by a variety of dishes. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your white Burgundy wine pairing:

Start by considering the weight of the dish. White Burgundy is a light-bodied wine, so it pairs best with light dishes such as fish, poultry, and salads. Avoid heavy dishes such as red meat, as they will overpower the delicate flavors of the wine.

When pairing white Burgundy with food, look for dishes that have similar flavors to the wine. White Burgundy is known for its notes of citrus, apple, and pear, so look for dishes that feature these flavors. For example, a white Burgundy would pair nicely with a light fish dish that is seasoned with lemon and herbs.

Finally, consider the texture of the food when pairing with white Burgundy. This wine pairs best with dishes that have a creamy texture, such as risotto or creamy pasta dishes. The creamy texture of the food helps to balance out the light body of the wine.

White Bordeaux Cheese Pairings to Try

White Bordeaux wines are known for their full-bodied, complex flavors, making them the perfect accompaniment to a variety of cheeses. From creamy Brie to nutty Gruyere, there are a variety of cheese pairings that will bring out the best in your white Bordeaux. Here are some of the best pairings to try:

For a light, fruity white Bordeaux, try pairing it with a creamy Brie. The soft, buttery texture of the cheese will complement the light fruitiness of the wine. For a more complex white Bordeaux, try pairing it with a nutty Gruyere. The nutty flavor of the cheese will bring out the more subtle flavors of the wine.

For a more intense white Bordeaux, try pairing it with a sharp, aged cheddar. The sharpness of the cheese will cut through the bold flavors of the wine, creating a balanced flavor profile. For a sweeter white Bordeaux, try pairing it with a mild Gouda. The sweetness of the cheese will bring out the subtle sweetness of the wine.

Red Burgundy Food Pairings to Enjoy

Red Burgundy is a type of red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Burgundy region of France. It has a deep, complex flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. When pairing red Burgundy with food, it's important to consider the body and tannin levels of the wine.

For lighter red Burgundy wines, try pairing them with dishes that have a light, delicate flavor. Roasted chicken, grilled salmon, and roasted vegetables are all excellent choices. For a heartier meal, try pairing your red Burgundy with a beef stew or a rich mushroom risotto. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms will complement the wine's complexity.

For a truly indulgent experience, pair your red Burgundy with a decadent chocolate dessert. The sweetness of the chocolate will balance out the tannins in the wine, creating a truly unique flavor experience. If you're looking for something a bit lighter, try pairing your red Burgundy with a fruit tart or a light fruit salad. The sweetness of the fruit will bring out the subtle notes in the wine.

Conclusion

When it comes to pairing food with Burgundy and Bordeaux wines, the possibilities are endless. From white Burgundy and Bordeaux to red Burgundy and Bordeaux, there are a variety of flavors and textures to explore. Whether you’re looking for a classic pairing or something a bit more adventurous, you’re sure to find the perfect combination of flavors to complement your favorite Burgundy and Bordeaux wines. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that will have your guests raving.