Burgundy is a type of red wine that pairs well with a variety of ingredients and dishes. When creating a meal, it’s important to consider what you can mix with burgundy to bring out the best flavors and aromas. In this article, we’ll explore the different food and drink options that go well with burgundy wine.
Meats
Burgundy is commonly paired with red meats like beef, lamb, and venison. The tannins in burgundy can help cut through the fattiness of these rich meats. Some specific meats to consider pairing with burgundy include:
- Beef tenderloin
- Prime rib
- Filet mignon
- Pot roast
- Steak
- Lamb chops
- Venison
- Duck
Game Meat
In addition to standard meats like beef and lamb, burgundy also pairs well with game meat. The bold, earthy flavors of game are nicely complemented by the fruity yet savory notes in burgundy. Game meats to try with burgundy include:
- Venison
- Rabbit
- Boar
- Elk
- Pheasant
- Quail
- Duck
Hard Cheeses
The tannins in burgundy can also help cut through the richness of hard, aged cheeses. The fruitiness of the wine balances out the saltiness of these cheeses as well. Some hard cheeses that pair nicely with burgundy wine include:
- Aged cheddar
- Gouda
- Parmesan
- Pecorino
- Manchego
- Aged gouda
- Gruyère
Soft Cheeses
While burgundy classically pairs with hard cheeses, it can also complement soft cheeses. The creamy textures match nicely with burgundy’s velvety mouthfeel. Some soft cheeses to enjoy with burgundy include:
- Brie
- Camembert
- Mozzarella
- Burrata
- Goat cheese
- Ricotta
- Mascarpone
Vegetables
In addition to meats and cheeses, burgundy can pair nicely with earthy vegetables. The wine’s flavors of black fruit, spice, and oak smoke complement roasted veggies well. Some vegetables that work with burgundy include:
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Beets
- Carrots
- Eggplant
- Squash
- Potatoes
Herbs and Spices
When cooking vegetables or meat to serve with burgundy, consider seasoning them with herbs and spices that will complement the wine’s flavors. Here are some herbs and spices that pair nicely with burgundy:
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Garlic
- Pepper
- Cloves
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
Desserts
While not as traditional of a pairing, burgundy can also work nicely with certain sweeter desserts. The red fruits and baking spice notes in the wine match well with fall-inspired desserts. Some options include:
- Chocolate cake
- Chocolate truffles
- Pecan pie
- Apple tart
- Poached pears
- Crème brûlée
Cured Meats
| Cured Meat | Pairing Notes |
|---|---|
| Salami | The spices and smoke in salami complement burgundy’s flavors. |
| Prosciutto | The saltiness contrasts nicely with burgundy’s fruit. |
| Chorizo | The savory spiciness is balanced by burgundy’s body. |
| Pancetta | The rich meatiness matches well with burgundy. |
In addition to pairing nicely with rich meats, burgundy can also complement cured meats like salami, prosciutto, chorizo, and pancetta. The spices and salts match the wine’s bold flavors.
Other Wines
Burgundy can be blended with some other wines to create interesting flavor combinations. Some wines that can be successfully mixed with burgundy include:
- Pinot noir – Allows the burgundy’s cherry notes to shine.
- Grenache – Adds body and peppery spice.
- Syrah – Contributes dark fruit and smoky flavors.
- Merlot – Provides structure and herbal notes.
- Cabernet Sauvignon – Adds boldness and black currant.
Cocktails
In cocktails, burgundy can add nice fruitiness and a silky texture. Some cocktail ideas using burgundy include:
- The Bourgundian – Burgundy, gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice.
- Lady in Red – Burgundy, brandy, orange juice, ginger ale.
- Spiced Burgundy Sangria – Burgundy, brandy, orange juice, cloves, cinnamon.
- Berry Bliss – Burgundy, vodka, mixed berries.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
For a non-alcoholic pairing, burgundy tea can evoke some of the wine’s flavor profile. Fruity black teas like blood orange, cherry, and black currant work nicely. Coffee with dark chocolate or blackberry notes can also complement a burgundy-themed meal.
Conclusion
Burgundy’s versatility allows it to pair well with a wide variety of ingredients. Rich meats like beef and game, hard and soft cheeses, earthy vegetables, savory herbs and spices, fall-inspired desserts, cured meats, and even certain cocktails can all complement burgundy’s fruity, earthy, and oaky flavors. Non-alcoholic options like fruited teas and coffees can also evoke a similar burgundy profile. With endless possibilities for food pairings, burgundy makes a great choice when planning a meal or cocktail hour.
