From social media comes a strong irreverent push when it comes to wine. Alongside a strong demand for simplicity. In recent months, there has been a surge in popularity of pop pairings with wine, with fine wines being uncorked alongside hot dogs, hamburgers, and fries. The pairing with the latter has become viral thanks to TikToker Eli Rallo, who launched the challenge to her followers using infographics drafted by the American magazine Wine Enthusiast as a starting point. The response was significant, the wine-fries combination became a trending search topic with peak searches in December, as confirmed by Google. Therefore, Baxters of Scotland, a company that packages luxury gift baskets and hampers, decided to compile a real guide to avoid mistakes thanks to the tips of sommelier Rory Anderson.
Ideal pairings according to Anderson
Champagne - original flavor
A match made in heaven. Simplicity and complexity meet in a classic combination of salt and crisp acidity.
Riesling - salt and vinegar
The high acidity and citrusy character of Riesling manage to tame the challenging flavor of vinegar.
Chardonnay - sour cream & onion
A combination that enhances the creamy and buttery character of Chardonnay. The notes of tropical and acidic fruits perfectly contrast the fries.
Provence Rosé - shrimp cocktail flavor
A perfect mix of sweetness, savoriness, and envelopment that calls for a subtle rosé with delicate tones of red berries, citrus, and floral notes.
Grenache Rosé - Thai Chili flavor
The fruity notes of rosé wine tame the heat and spiciness of fries, with a hint of tannin dictating the sip.
Pinot Noir - sweet potatoes
Perfect pairing between fruit notes and earthy sensations: it enhances the sweetness of sweet potatoes and balances a symphony of flavors.
Malbec - Barbecue flavor
Tones of black fruits, cocoa, and spices meet in a meaty and impactful pairing.
Try it to believe it
"Wine and French fries are an accessible version of the classic wine and cheese combo. Although both are recognized as enjoyable, the former highlights the wine's tones and is more versatile in different pairings. This makes it perfect for many occasions, whether it's a friendly gathering or a classy social event, an easy but distinctive way to bring your loved ones together for a celebration," comments the Scottish sommelier. "The reason this combination works is that the salty taste and the crunchy texture of the fries help bring out the fruity flavors hinted at in the wine. At the same time, the fat from the fries softens the wine's acidity, while the potato amplifies the complexity of the yeast present in the wine, offering a more enjoyable experience for the taste buds," he concludes.
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