Good Morning!

While I was trolling around blogs and websites trying to figure out which wines really work with Mexican food. I just can not find a wine that works with the the spices of my favorite Mexican meals. I cut and pasted these together from a couple different sites. I printed this out and put it with all my take out menus for future dinning on the couch.

There are no hard-and-fast rules, but here are the ones we tend to follow for the myriad takeout food options, ethnic and otherwise:

Thai: Get an off-dry Riesling. The sweetness and spiciness pairs perfectly with green curry. Always an awesome wine at a great price. You should be able to find this wine from $8-12.

Chinese: This is a tough one since Chinese food can be spicy, mild, steamed, fried–you name it. Generally, with the lighter, milder options, we go for Chardonnay, such as a basic white Burgundy. For the more powerful, heavier dishes, try a red Bordeaux. The Chinese themselves love it, after all. Go find White Burgundy or Chardonnay, you will find great ones from $12-15 a bottle.

Sushi: New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, especially from 2010, is a perfect match–and there are oodles of selections for $10. If you prefer red, try a 2009 Pinot Noir from New Zealand, which won’t overpower the fish.

Pizza: Do what the Italians do: Drink Sangiovese. The acidity and fruit are the perfect balance with pizza, from Domino’s to the mom and pop pizzarias. Always a safe bet is Chianti Classico, you will find great wines from $12-15 a bottle.

Mexican: While it makes sense to pair a basic Rioja–with Mexican food, in many ways this cuisine is as varied as Chinese food: Some takeout items are spicy, some are hearty, some are mild. For whites, try Chenin Blanc from South Africa, a great match for fish tacos. And for red, try a versatile, reliable Malbec these wines should run you about $10-14 a bottle.

I hope this helps you enjoy the take out and I hope you will expand your palette!

Much LOVE and wine,

Tammi

Lobster and Ahi tuna flatbread pizza with sushi (Take out Kona Grill)