When Wine Is Like Gravy

There are two definitions for the word gravy.

Gravy is both a sauce made from many ingredients and an unearned or unexpected extra, such as money. Both definitions indicate that gravy makes things better.

That is what you look for in wine pairing. When the right wine is paired with the right food, the wine and the food is even better. It is like gravy.

I first understood the concept of pairing came when I visited a restaurant with a reputation for good food and wine. Their wine list included a local wine, the name of which I recognized. I knew it was a popular wine, but I had not drunk it before. So I ordered a glass of the red blend and selected the eggplant parmesan for my entrée.

The wine was jammy with flavors that reminded me of a holiday spice cake. The eggplant was baked in a red sauce and covered in cheese. These two things, while fine on their own, fought with one another in my mouth. The eggplant needed a clean, peppery red to cut through the rich flavors of the dish. The red blend might have complimented a sweet bar-b-que.

I experienced wine pairing as gravy at another local restaurant. It was a wine tasting dinner that presented a local Chardonnay with crab cakes. The velvety Chardonnay had a bright acidity. The crab cakes were rich and savory. Together, in my mouth, the flavors of the food and of the wine combined in such a way that they become one.

So, how do you learn what pairs well together to achieve that magic moment when food and wine join forces to create heaven? There are many ways.

• When you visit a winery, ask the tasting room staff.

• When you are at a restaurant, ask the server.

• When you are at the store, read the label on the bottle.

• When you can, participate in wine pairing dinners and events.

• Trial and error. Systematically try different wines with different foods.

Finally, pay attention. When you drink a glass of wine with something, take a moment to notice if it tastes like heaven (or gravy, depending upon how you define heaven) or not.

The friendly staff at Habersham Vineyards tasting room will be happy to help you find that food and wine heaven. All you have to do is ask.