Pairing Wine with Brunch: Mimosa Not Required
When it comes to brunch, most people automatically think of mimosas. While there's nothing wrong with a classic mimosa, there are other wine options that can elevate your brunch experience to a whole new level. Here are some tips for pairing wine with brunch, no matter what you're eating.
1. Eggs Benedict and Champagne
There's nothing quite like a classic Eggs Benedict for brunch. The richness of the hollandaise sauce and the runny yolk of the poached egg call for a wine with high acidity to cut through the fat. This is where Champagne comes in. The bubbles and acidity in Champagne help to balance out the dish and cleanse the palate between bites.
2. Bagels and Lox with Pinot Noir
If you're more of a savory brunch person, you can't go wrong with a bagel and lox. The saltiness of the lox and cream cheese pairs perfectly with a light-bodied Pinot Noir. This wine has enough structure to stand up to the rich flavors of the salmon, but won't overpower the dish.
3. French Toast and Moscato
If your brunch leans more towards the sweet side, French Toast is a classic choice. The cinnamon and sugar flavors call for a wine that's more on the fruity side, like Moscato. The sweetness of the wine complements the sweetness of the dish, and the lightness of the wine won't weigh you down.
4. Quiche and Chardonnay
Quiche is another classic brunch dish that's both savory and filling. A buttery and oaky Chardonnay works well with the creamy egg filling and flaky pastry crust of the quiche. The richness of the wine stands up to the quiche's flavors without overpowering them.
5. Avocado Toast and Sauvignon Blanc
Avocado toast has become a brunch staple in recent years, and for good reason. The creamy avocado and tart tomato call for a wine with high acidity to balance them out. A bright and citrusy Sauvignon Blanc does just that, and also brings out the flavors of the toast toppings.
6. Pancakes and Syrah
If you're feeling indulgent, nothing beats a stack of fluffy pancakes for brunch. The syrupy sweetness of the pancakes pairs well with a bold and velvety Syrah. This wine complements the sweetness of the pancakes while also adding depth and complexity to the dish.
In conclusion, don't limit yourself to mimosas when it comes to pairing wine with brunch. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, there's a wine out there that can take your brunch experience to the next level. So next time you're out for brunch, try out one of these wine pairings and see how it elevates your meal.