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The best wine pairings in terms of taste are not always the best when it comes to health. With so many different varieties of wine, it’s only natural to find a good bottle for each type of food you want to eat. Everyone talks at length about various types of cheese and cured meats that pair fabulously with wine. But what about all the people who want to enjoy a healthy dinner and wine?
There are plenty of health benefits of drinking wine. However, if the wine is not combined with quality, healthy food, people are not going to feel better after it. Wine and wellness are not usually discussed together but there is in fact a way to get both. You just need to pair your wine with the superfoods that are going to nourish your body and give you an energy boost.
If you find the topic of wine and wellness intriguing and if you happen to be a restaurant owner looking for ways to provide a better customer experience, this article is for you. We will outline all of the wine and superfood combinations that will bring in new customers and help you increase wine sales.
Wine and Wellness: The Perfect Wine and Superfood Pairings
Serving superfoods won’t be enough for the true wine enthusiasts who want to enjoy a nice glass of wine with their meal. That’s why you need to know how to build good pairings for wine and wellness dinners. Here are some great ideas for different types of wine and how to pair them with superfoods:
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, citrusy white wine that pairs wonderfully with leafy greens like kale and spinach. This type of white wine can be paired perfectly with dishes containing avocado or asparagus. Its acidity cuts through the richness of superfoods, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. It’s a perfect wine to enjoy all year round, however, during the warmer months it is especially nice to pair it with light, healthy foods. It’s a must-have type of wine for any wine list!
Key Takeaway: Wine and wellness are not often used together in a sentence, but they can be. If the combination of wine and food is done right, the meal can be both enjoyable and healthy. There are plenty of great types of wine that can be paired with superfoods and satisfy the cravings of health-conscious customers. Restaurant owners need to use this knowledge to their advantage and serve delicious wine and food pairings!
Pinot Noir
Pinot noir is a light-bodied red wine that is versatile and pairs well with various superfoods. When building wine and wellness food pairings, you should consider mushrooms, quinoa, and fatty fish like salmon. The wine's fruit-forward profile and moderate tannins make it a great match for these healthy options. It’s also great that these superfoods are used in all kinds of cuisine and you won’t have to make big adjustments to your food offerings. Seafood restaurants, for example, can easily start offering Pinot Noir alongside the salmon dishes and talk about health benefits in their marketing campaigns.
Unoaked Chardonnay
An unoaked Chardonnay with its fresh, clean flavors pairs well with lighter superfoods like almonds, quinoa, and white fish. The wine's acidity complements the mild flavors of these ingredients without overwhelming them. It’s a great wine to pair with different seafood dishes. Chardonnay is also a crowd favorite so as soon as you put it in a wine and wellness food pairing, you will see the growing interest.
Rosé
Rosé wines are generally light and refreshing, making them a perfect pairing for Mediterranean superfoods such as tomatoes, olives, and chickpeas. The subtle fruitiness of a good Rosé can enhance the natural flavors of these dishes. You can create all kinds of delicious and healthy salads to go along with a nice glass of rosé wine. Vegetable dishes and dishes with chicken and a side of hummus, for example, will work fabulously as well.
Dry Riesling
A dry Riesling offers a balance of acidity and fruitiness, making it a good choice for dishes containing spicy superfoods like turmeric and ginger. It can also pair well with fruit-based dishes, salads, or Asian-inspired meals that incorporate healthy ingredients like tofu or leafy greens. If you already have such dishes on your menu, be sure to offer dry Riesling to customers. You can talk to them about wine and wellness, too, which will increase their interest in ordering a bottle or by the glass wine.
Cabernet Franc
For a red wine option with more body but still low in tannins, Cabernet Franc pairs well with dishes that include protein-rich superfoods like beans, lentils, and lean meats. Its herbal notes also complement the flavors of green vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts. This makes it one of the best in the wine and wellness category. It pairs perfectly with a large variety of dishes from various cuisines.
Grenache
This medium-bodied red wine pairs well with roasted vegetables and nuts, especially when incorporating heart-healthy fats like olive oil. Grenache's fruitiness and mild tannins enhance the flavors of hearty, nutritious dishes without overpowering them. Make sure you have it on your wine and wellness list!
Prosecco
For those who love some bubbly, you should serve prosecco wine. It’s a type of wine that pairs excellently with superfoods like berries, citrus fruits, and seafood. Its effervescence helps to cleanse the palate and balance out the flavors of fresh, healthy ingredients. It’s also the type of wine that you would commonly see on brunch menus. If you want to jump on the wine and wellness trend, definitely think about brunch superfoods to serve, too.
By carefully selecting these wines, you can create a wine list that enhances the nutritional and flavor profile of your superfood-based dishes. This way, you can provide a holistic dining experience for your health-conscious customers!
Frequently Asked Questions about Wine and Wellness
If you are curious to learn more about wine and wellness, read the answers to these common questions people ask! You will get even more insight into this interesting topic.
Is Wine Actually Healthy?
Wine, particularly red wine (in moderation), is associated with certain health benefits, such as improved heart health. This is due to the presence of antioxidants like resveratrol. However, excessive consumption can have negative health effects. It's essential to enjoy wine responsibly as part of a balanced diet.
Which Types of Wine Are Best for Health-Conscious Consumers?
Dry red wines like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon are often touted for their health benefits due to their high levels of antioxidants. White wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can also be good options, especially if they are low in sugar and alcohol. Other types of low-alcohol wines are good to have on the list for customers who are looking for healthier alternatives.
Can Wine Be Paired with Superfoods for a Healthier Meal?
Yes, wine can complement superfoods like leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts. For example, Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with kale or spinach, while Pinot Noir complements dishes with quinoa or salmon. Choosing wines that enhance the natural flavors of healthy ingredients can elevate a meal.