English sparkling red wine is a unique and exciting addition to the world of wines, offering a delicious twist on the traditional sparkling experience. Made from red grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Rondo, English sparkling reds are known for their vibrant fruit flavours, rich complexity, and lively effervescence. But just like any wine, finding the perfect food pairing can elevate your tasting experience and bring out the best in both the wine and the dish.
At Colemere Vineyard, we take great pride in producing high-quality English sparkling red wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. If you’ve been lucky enough to try our sparkling red, you’ll know how versatile and food-friendly it can be. In this blog, we’ll explore the best pairings for English sparkling red wine, helping you enhance your tasting experience and discover exciting new flavour combinations.
Why English Sparkling Red Wine?
Before diving into food pairings, it’s important to understand what makes English sparkling red wine so special. Produced through the traditional method (the same method used for Champagne), this wine boasts a balance of rich fruit notes, refreshing acidity, and the effervescence that makes sparkling wines so enjoyable. English sparkling reds often showcase flavours of red berries, cherries, and plums, with subtle hints of spice and earthy undertones. This lively profile makes them ideal for pairing with a wide range of dishes, from bold meats to light canapés.
1. Charcuterie and Cured Meats
A classic pairing for sparkling red wine is charcuterie—a beautiful assortment of cured meats, pâtés, and terrines. The rich, salty flavours of meats like prosciutto, salami, or soppressata work wonderfully with the crisp acidity and vibrant fruit notes of sparkling red wine. The effervescence in the wine helps to cleanse the palate between bites, making each mouthful feel fresh and light.
- Prosciutto and melon: The sweet and salty combination of prosciutto and melon is a timeless pairing that complements the fruity notes in the wine.
- Sausage and pâté: The richness of sausages or pâté contrasts beautifully with the acidity of the sparkling red, creating a balanced and harmonious flavour experience.
2. Grilled Meats and BBQ
The lively effervescence and vibrant fruit character of English sparkling red wine make it an excellent companion for grilled meats and BBQ dishes. The rich, smoky flavours of grilled beef, lamb, and even BBQ chicken work wonderfully with the wine’s refreshing acidity, creating a bold yet balanced pairing.
- Grilled steak: The charred edges of a well-cooked steak pair perfectly with the tannin structure and red fruit flavours of sparkling red wine.
- BBQ ribs: The tangy, sweet BBQ sauce and the smoky meat complement the bright berry notes in the wine, creating a match made in heaven.
3. Rich, Earthy Flavours in Vegetarian Dishes
English sparkling red wine isn’t just for meat lovers—it also pairs wonderfully with vegetarian dishes, particularly those with rich, earthy flavours. The wine’s natural acidity and vibrant fruit notes provide a fresh contrast to the richness of vegetables like mushrooms, root vegetables, and squash.
- Mushroom risotto: The earthy richness of mushrooms, paired with the creaminess of a risotto, is beautifully complemented by the red fruit and acidity of sparkling red wine.
- Roasted root vegetables: Dishes like roasted carrots, parsnips, and beetroot provide an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruit-forward notes of the wine.
4. Cheese Pairings for Sparkling Red Wine
Cheese and sparkling wine are a classic combination, and English sparkling red wine is no exception. The acidity and bubbles help cut through the richness and creaminess of cheese, while the fruity notes complement the flavours of the cheese.
- Aged Cheddar: The sharpness and intensity of an aged Cheddar work well with the vibrant berry notes of the wine, providing a satisfying contrast.
- Brie: A soft, creamy Brie with a hint of tanginess pairs perfectly with sparkling red wine, as the wine helps balance out the richness of the cheese.
- Goat’s Cheese: The tangy, earthy flavour of goat’s cheese complements the fruity and slightly spicy notes of the wine, creating a harmonious pairing.
5. Chocolate and Dessert Pairings
While sparkling red wine is often thought of as a savoury companion, it can also pair beautifully with certain desserts. The wine’s natural sweetness and fruit-forward flavours make it an excellent match for chocolate and berry-based treats.
- Dark chocolate: The bold, slightly bitter flavours of dark chocolate are a fantastic match for sparkling red wine. The wine’s acidity helps to balance the richness of the chocolate.
- Chocolate-covered strawberries: A romantic and delicious pairing, the fresh fruit notes in the sparkling red wine complement the sweet, rich chocolate.
- Berry tarts: Fruit-based desserts, such as a mixed berry tart or raspberry sorbet, work wonderfully with the wine’s vibrant red fruit flavours.
6. Asian Cuisine
Sparkling red wine also pairs beautifully with Asian cuisine, particularly dishes with bold, spicy flavours. The acidity and effervescence of the wine help to balance out the richness and spice, creating a refreshing contrast.
- Thai green curry: The spiciness and richness of a green curry are perfectly balanced by the bright fruit flavours and effervescence of English sparkling red wine.
- Sushi: The wine’s acidity and light bubbles make it a fantastic choice for pairing with fresh sushi or sashimi, especially those with a bit of spice, like wasabi or pickled ginger.
Conclusion: Enjoying English Sparkling Red Wine
English sparkling red wine is a versatile and exciting wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. From grilled meats and earthy vegetables to decadent chocolate desserts, there are endless possibilities for pairing this unique wine. At Colemere Vineyard, we take pride in crafting an exceptional sparkling red wines that showcase the best of Shropshire’s terroir.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a casual meal, or simply relaxing with friends, our English sparkling red wine can bring out the best in any dish. So, the next time you open a bottle, experiment with these pairings and elevate your dining experience.