Europe is the birthplace of many of the world’s most celebrated wines and time-honoured dishes. Each country has its own distinct culinary identity, and when it comes to food and wine pairing, the continent excels like no other. If you’ve ever wondered why Bordeaux pairs so beautifully with duck, or what to drink with tapas in Spain, you’re in for a treat. This guide explores the top European food and wine pairings that have stood the test of time.
Why Are European Wine Pairings So Perfect?
The concept of pairing local wine with local food is deeply embedded in European tradition. Over centuries, winemaking and cooking have evolved side by side in each region, with grape varietals and recipes developing in harmony with the climate, landscape, and lifestyle. The French call this idea terroir, a sense of place that shapes both the vineyard and the kitchen. It’s no coincidence that hearty Tuscan dishes pair effortlessly with Sangiovese, or that rich French duck finds its match in bold Bordeaux reds. As the saying goes, what grows together, goes together, and nowhere demonstrates this better than Europe.
Best wine pairs with classic French dishes
France is a benchmark for both food and wine, with each region offering its own iconic pairings. In Burgundy, the delicate flavours of Coq au Vin come alive with a glass of local Pinot Noir. The red fruit and earthy undertones of Burgundy Pinot cut through the richness of the dish while complementing its slow-cooked depth.
Over in Bordeaux, the bold reds, typically blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, are perfect alongside duck confit or grilled meats. These wines offer structure, tannins, and dark fruit notes that match the intensity of the food.
For lighter fare, Loire Valley whites like Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc) are excellent with goat’s cheese, seafood, and herb-forward dishes. The wine’s crisp acidity and citrus profile provide balance and freshness.
Best Wine Pairings for Italian Cuisine
Italian food is all about simplicity, balance, and flavour, and the same can be said for its wines. The vibrant acidity and rustic charm of Chianti make it the go-to choice for tomato-based dishes like Margherita pizza or pasta al pomodoro. Chianti’s Sangiovese grape offers cherry, dried herb, and savoury spice notes that enhance the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes.
For something richer, Barolo, the famed Nebbiolo-based wine from Piedmont, is an exceptional match for truffle pasta or braised meats. Its floral aromas, firm tannins, and earthy depth make it ideal for luxurious northern Italian cuisine.
Another classic is Osso Buco, often paired with a glass of Barbera, which brings juicy acidity and soft tannins that cut through the dish’s richness without overpowering the delicate veal.
What Wine Goes Well With Spanish Food?
Spanish cuisine is bold, expressive, and wonderfully diverse, and the wines are just as characterful. Small bites like tapas, whether olives, chorizo, or patatas bravas, pair beautifully with versatile reds like Tempranillo or Garnacha. These wines offer ripe berry flavours and a hint of spice that mirror the vibrant flavours on the plate.
For seafood-rich dishes like paella, especially the Valencian or seafood versions, a chilled glass of Albariño is an ideal companion. Crisp and mineral-driven, it complements shellfish and saffron without overpowering them. And when it comes to Jamón Ibérico, there’s arguably no better match than a glass of aged Rioja. The wine’s oak-aged depth and savoury undertones mirror the richness of the ham perfectly.
Perfect Wine Matches for German and Austrian Flavours
German and Austrian dishes often feature bold, hearty flavours that demand wines with acidity and freshness. Schnitzel, for example, pairs delightfully with a chilled Grüner Veltliner from Austria, its citrus and white pepper notes bring brightness to fried dishes.
Classic German sausages, particularly when served with sauerkraut or mustard, go hand in hand with an off-dry or dry Riesling. The high acidity and touch of sweetness tame the saltiness and spice of the food. And for dessert, few things beat a slice of apple strudel with a late-harvest Auslese Riesling, which delivers luscious fruit and balancing acidity.
Best Wine Pairings for Greek and Portuguese Flavours
Mediterranean cuisine brings unique flavours, often herbaceous, grilled, and olive oil-rich, and the local wines know just how to enhance them. For traditional moussaka, try a glass of Xinomavro or Agiorgitiko from Greece. These reds offer spice, dark fruit, and acidity to match the creamy layers of aubergine and meat.
Grilled octopus and seafood dishes pair beautifully with a crisp, mineral-rich Assyrtiko, Greece’s answer to Chablis, which complements both freshness and char. In Portugal, few dishes are more iconic than bacalhau (salt cod), often served with potatoes and olive oil. A lightly spritzy Vinho Verde makes a perfect match, bringing citrusy lift and balancing the saltiness.
Experience Europe in a Glass with World Wine
From Chianti to Champagne and beyond, Europe offers a world of flavour through its regional food and wine pairings. At World Wine, we make it easy to discover iconic combinations and lesser-known gems, all expertly curated and delivered to your door. Not sure where to start? Try our themed Wine Samplers or join the World Wine Club to explore curated selections from top wine regions.
Need a personalised recommendation? Contact us, our wine experts are always happy to help you find your perfect pairing.