Why Red Wine is the Perfect Match for Dim Sum Delights

With Asian cuisine, Riesling has long held the title as the go-to pairing choice. However, it’s time to shift this perspective and embrace the unique compatibility of red wine. While Riesling’s acidity and subtle sweetness make it a worthy companion for spicy dishes prevalent in Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and even Mexican cuisines, the same can be said for an array of red wines.

Chef Brett Young from The Prisoner Wine Company explains that the rationale behind pairing Riesling with dim sum stems from balancing the wine’s acidity with the dish’s salinity. Traditionally, Asian foods are seen as best suited for white wines due to their heat and saltiness.

Yet, many overlook the potential of red wines alongside these flavors. As Adrienne Cooper, beverage manager at Pinch Chinese in New York, notes, the common perception is that bold reds pair only with hearty meals, but numerous red varieties harmonize beautifully with dumplings, fried rice, and pad Thai.

The Prisoner Wine Company actively showcases this pairing possibility in their Napa tasting room by offering dim sum alongside their red wines, breaking from tradition. Young emphasizes that while spiciness might accentuate tannins in structured reds, the less traditional blends offered by The Prisoner provide a well-rounded flavor that complements the umami of Asian dishes.

However, choosing the right red wine can prove challenging, as it is essential to consider the specific characteristics of different Asian cuisines. Cooper advises against generalizing these cuisines, highlighting the importance of recognizing each dish’s unique ingredients and preparation methods.

She recommends starting with high-acid reds, such as Pinot Noir and Gamay. For Japanese dishes like sushi, a slightly chilled Blaufränkisch can surprisingly enhance the experience. Meanwhile, for Thai food, Cooper suggests Chilean Carménère, which has a body and fruity profile akin to Merlot but with a hint of pepper that complements Thai curries nicely.

If in doubt, Cabernet Franc and red blends are excellent all-purpose options due to their softer tannins and balanced flavors. Zinfandel also harmonizes with Asian cuisine, providing a juicy, fruit-forward profile with a touch of spice.

One additional tip from Young is to consider pairing red wine with dishes that include Ponzu sauce, a delightful combination due to its lemon and rice vinegar notes.

Overall, by experimenting with red wines alongside Chinese and other Asian cuisines, you just might find a new favorite pairing that goes beyond the conventional white wine.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!