People around the United States are getting prepared to gather their friends and families, light their barbies and set off fireworks in celebration of America’s national Independence Day. Although the delicacies most commonly created on the grill and served to the masses on paper plates are undeniable palate-pleasers, pairing them with fine wines and craft beers may seem a daunting task, so we’re here to help.
For Reds
Although hotdogs usually bring with them the images of cheap beer sloshing about in plastic cups at baseball games, pairing a good frank with a rich red blend will truly hit the homerun of flavor. The Prolo Red, available on tap and produced by Proletariat Wine Co., combines Cabernet, Merlot and Malbec to create a sultry, initially fruity flavor that cascades into an earthy spice with velvety tannins sure to bring out the delicate smokiness of a grilled hotdog and turn a paper-plate native into a true entrée.
A peppery Zinfandel is the perfect match for a smoky BBQ chicken. Try Viola Wine Cellars’ 2012 Zinfandel—a sip of its spicy pepper notes that contrast with the sweet, rich blueberry dances with a bite of chipotle-honey glazed chicken in perfect harmony.
Considering no barbeque is complete without burgers, a good Cabernet Sauvignon should be deemed mandatory as well. The layers of dark fruit, earth and leather of a classic cab, like the L’Ecole Columbia Valley 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, complement the charred, red meat with its upfront smooth, sweetness that pushes into a richer, earthy finish with supple tannins.
Salmon can be prepared in a variety of ways, but one grilled on a classic cedar plank deserves the accompaniment of an unimposing sweet yet spice-laden Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. The Z’IVO 2009 Pinot Noir is a prime example with its notes of strawberry and cherry mixed with spicy cloves.
For Whites
A modest, white fish knows no better partner than a fresh, citrusy delight. Grown in Hood River, Ore., and fermented in stainless steel, Phelps Creek Vineyards 2012 Unoaked Chardonnay delights with a crisp, bright entry. Its acidic structure pairs perfectly with a white fish.
With grilled, skewered shrimp, pour a glass of Chateau Ste Michelle Dry Riesling. This dry, orange citrus laden beverage with an earthy undertone and kiss of honey is incredibly versatile and a lovely complement to a flavorful dish.
If you are looking forward to indulging in fried chicken, don’t forget to pair it with some bubbles. A nice, dry white sparkling wine, like Treveri Cellars Extra-Brut “Blanc de Blanc” will cut the greasiness of the meat and refresh the palate.
For Brews
Since all of this cooking is sure to leave you parched, you undoubtedly need a refreshing brew as your right-hand man that can stand-alone or pair well with a wide variety of snacks. A classic session India Pale Ale, low in alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage and therefore shippable for hours without being low in hoppy goodness, is a winning pick. Black Raven Brewing Co., Base Camp Brewing Company and 10 Barrel Brewing Co., all brew great sessions sure to keep your thirst quenched through a long day without giving you a buzz that will impair your grilling.
Give one of these pairings a try this upcoming Independence Day, or any day really, and revel in the glory of your taste buds exploding in conjunction with the fireworks.
