WHEN I was growing up in the wine trade, I worked in Oddbins and at the time all the staff were really good at matching wine to takeaway food. We’d finish a 12 or 13-hour shift and grab grub on the way home, and there was always something in the fridge. Happy days.
You’d have a Gewurztraminer with a light curry, a Montepulciano with pizza and you’d always pick a decent Sauvignon Blanc with fish and chips. The reason being, the acidity in the wine would cut through the fattiness of the batter perfectly, making for an ideal match.
The same match is true to this day, and I’d always head for my favourite Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé from the posh end of the Loire valley with a classic take on takeaway fish and chips.
The best producers in Pouilly-Fumé have a soil base very similar to that of Premier cru Chablis. It’s essentially a mineral-rich mix of Kimmeridgian and Portlandian clay which adds a fantastic acidity to the wine in your glass. As well as adding a touch of gravitas to the wine, it also makes for a better food match. As well as matching fresh trout, smoked salmon, and fish pie the wine also works with any dish which includes goats’ cheese and (of course) anything involving fish and chips.
Here are a couple to seek out this weekend …
Chateau de Tracey Pouilly-Fumé 2016 (Majestic Wine Warehouse, £25.00). This is a really earthy, old-fashioned example of the style. It’s very lovely and completely delicious.
Pouilly-Fumé La Loge aux Moines Patrice Moreux 2015 (Inverarity One to One, £17.99). This is arguably the best example of Old World Sauvignon Blanc you’re likely to come across, it’s food-friendly and fantastic value for money. Cheers!
Pete Stewart is Glasgow director of Inverarity One to One, 185a Bath Street www.inveraritymorton.com
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