Vibrant and comforting
Aromatic Wines
An aromatic wine is a wine that is made out of aromatic grapes, simple right?
When using the term 'aromatics' we tend to speak only to white wine varietals and most commonly refer to the varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewurztraminer& Viognier.
The most common element across these winesis that they tend to be fermented at lower temperatures in order to preserve their beautiful, natural aromas and very often have either no or very little influence from oak during the winemaking phase in order to allow their natural, highly perfumed flavours shine through.
Now that we have the meaning behind an aromatic wine sorted, it's time to show you the very best food match for an aromatic wine.
Food Match
Aromatic wines and a Thai Green Curry
A Winter delight
Aromatic wines like Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Viognier are known for their floral, fruity and spicy characteristics. These wines are off dry to semi sweet, with vibrant acidity and intense aromas, making them the perfect match for Thai cuisine. Thai green curry is rich, creamy and packed with layers of spice, herbs, coconut milk and it needs a wine that can complement the fragrant aromas of lemongrass and kaffir lime. A wine that can balance the heat from the chili and spices and stand up to the creaminess of coconut milk. Therefore, an off dry aromatic wine does all of this effortlessly, making this a match made in heaven.
Why aromatic wines work with Thai green curry:
Flavour explosion
Thai green curry has layers of spice, richness and herbal freshness so it pairs beautifully with off dry aromatic wines that have a touch of sweetness, high acidity and floral citrus fruit notes to complement.
Our recommendations:
Gewurztraminer: For bold floral aromas, lychee and spice notes.
Riesling (off-dry or medium-dry) gives zesty acidity, citrus and honeyed notes that tame the heat.
Pinot Gris: A fruit driven yet slightly spicey choice that enhances the curry's richness.
Viognier: Lush and aromatic with notes of apricot, honeysuckle and spice adds an elegant contract.
Serving and enjoying:
This pairing is vibrant, comforting and packed with kiwi favourite flavours that make a perfect winter warming dish. Make sure your wine is chilled accordingly and service family style so everyone can enjoy sipping their wine.
Top picks
Top 3 Aromatic wines to match:
Spy Valley Gewurztraminer
Aromas of mango, ginger, nutmeg and rose petal. Powerful fruit flavours support a smooth flowing structure that linger in the mouth. Powerful fruit flavours support a smooth flowing structure that lingers in the mouth.
Mount Difficulty Pinot Gris
This wine displays delicious ripe aromatics showcasing white fleshed stonefruit, melon with a backdrop of red apple blossom. Succulent peach and rock melon introduce the wine, this then leads into a full textured mid palate and a ripe phenolic driven finish, this finish helps balances the wines off-dry style.
Falconhead Viognier
This beautifully perfumed Viognier shows dancing aromas of ripe peach and vanilla spice on the nose. The palate displays rich stone fruit, tangerine and honeysuckle flavours. Dry and fruity notes are present that are then further supported by a long oily finish. A very impressive wine!
