Fish is a controversial food. While some people do not like its soft texture and salty taste, others love it because it is lighter and often healthier than meat. One of the most popular types of fish is salmon. And as it is also a very versatile sea creature, it can be prepared in numerous ways and served with many different types of wine. But which wine and salmon pairings are best?
The best wine to pair with salmon is a white wine with a medium or full body. To stand the oily rich flesh, it needs a decent level of acidity. Oak-aged Chardonnay and Riesling are good matches. Their citrus flavors complement most salmon dishes.
Depending on preparation and seasoning, other wines, including reds and sparkling wines can be great alternatives. So let us discuss the best wine and salmon pairings.
WHAT IS SALMON AND HOW DOES IT TASTE?
Salmon is a saltwater fish that is native to the Pacific as well as the Atlantic Ocean. It is fished from the wild, especially in Alaska, or bred in fish farms in Norway or Chile. With its oily pink flesh and its rich and refreshing taste, it differs significantly from other seafood. It might remind you of light meat rather than fish. That’s why many people, who do not like fish in general, enjoy eating salmon.
Salmon’s global popularity is not only due to its delicious taste but also its impressive nutritional benefits. Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin D, salmon is a powerhouse of essential nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their heart health benefits, helping to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Meanwhile, Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and supporting the immune system, potentially reducing the risk of diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Incorporating salmon into your diet is a flavorful way to boost your overall health and well-being.
As it is a very versatile fish, you can prepare it in numerous ways. You can poach, grill, bake, or smoke it. You can serve it with a creamy sauce or season it with herbs and a bit of lemon juice. Besides, it is common to eat salmon raw as tartare or sushi. Depending on the preparation method and the seasoning, you can create very different culinary experiences.
Raw Salmon Filets
WHICH WINE AND SALMON PAIRINGS WORK BEST?
The general rules for pairing food and wines are pretty simple: Red wines go with red meat, and white wines go with white meat. Strictly speaking, fish is not meat, but for the sake of simplicity, it is usually put into the white meat category. And it is common to combine fish dishes with light and dry white wines.
As mentioned before, salmon is different, though. Due to its rich flavor, it can easily overpower light-bodied wines. Thus, medium- or full-bodied wines that have intense and complex flavors are better matches. Oaked Chardonnay, White Burgundy, Marsanne, or Riesling have these characteristics.
Even red wines can be great matches for salmon. It is essential to go for low-tannin wines, though. Sharp, crisp tannins can cause an unpleasant metallic taste when combined with the oily, salty flesh of salmon.
No matter if you prefer whites or reds, you should take the cooking method, the seasoning, and the side dishes into consideration before making your choice. With preparation and the use of spices, you can create very different culinary experiences that might require another wine pairing.
Another factor to take into account is terroir, as it plays an essential role in the creation of both wine and salmon, greatly influencing their flavors and characteristics. The climate, soil, and geographical features of a region can impact the taste of the wine just as much as where and how salmon is raised or caught. For instance, a wine from a cool climate might display more acidity, pairing well with certain salmon dishes, while the distinct taste of wild-caught Alaskan salmon reflects the unique environmental conditions it was reared in. Understanding the terroir of both components can enhance the pairing experience, creating a harmonious match on the palate.
Let us have a closer look at specific wine and salmon matches.
Raw Salmon and Wine
When serving raw salmon dishes like tartare, sushi, sashimi, or gravlax, choose a crisp white wine with citrus flavors and good acidity. A Grüner Veltliner from Austria offers zesty lime and white pepper notes, enhancing the freshness of the salmon.
Sauvignon Blanc from France’s Sancerre region is another great option, with vibrant acidity and citrus flavors that contrast beautifully with the salmon’s rich texture. Vermentino, with its bright lemon and herbal notes, also pairs well, highlighting the dish’s subtle nuances.
Plate of Raw Saeasoned Salmon
If you prefer rosé wines, try one from the Loire Valley in France. Rosés made using the Saignée Method from the Chinon appellation offer a balance of fruitiness and acidity. Their berry flavors and crisp finish make them an ideal match for the clean, delicate taste of raw salmon.
The following wines are worth trying:
Weingut Alzinger Steinertal Smaragd Grüner Veltliner 2019
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Austria, Wachau
- varietal: Grüner Veltliner
- alcohol: 13.5%
Pratsch Organic Grüner Veltliner 2020
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Austria, Niederösterreich
- varietal: Grüner Veltliner
- alcohol: 12.5%
Schloss Gobelsburg Schlosskellerei Gobelsburger Grüner Veltliner 2020
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Austria, Kamptal
- varietal: Grüner Veltliner
- alcohol: 12.5%
Crispy Baked Salmon and Wine
Baking salmon in the oven gives it a crispy skin and intense flavors. A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir is a great pairing for this preparation. An option for lovers of red wine is Beaujolais, a French wine made from Gamay grapes. It is low in tannins but high in acidity. Its fruity and earthy aromas complement the salmon’s flavors superbly. Sangiovese can work as well. But as its tannins tend to be much more intense, it can overpower the fish.
Riesling that is not too dry is a good pick for white wine lovers. Try a German Riesling Kabinett or Riesling Spätlese that is labeled as “restsüß” (or “restsüss”):
Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese 2019
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Germany, Mosel
- varietal: Riesling
- alcohol: 8.5%
Schloss Vollrads Rheingau Riesling Spätlese 2016
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Germany, Rheingau
- varietal: Riesling
- alcohol: 7.5%
J.J. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett 2020
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Germany, Mosel
- varietal: Riesling
- alcohol: 9.0%
Grilling salmon imparts smoky flavors that enhance its natural richness, making it a perfect candidate for pairing with full-bodied red wines. However, it’s important to consider the tannin content when choosing a red wine to accompany salmon. High tannins can interact with the fish oils, leading to an unpleasant metallic taste. Therefore, it’s best to select low-tannin wines, which complement the smoky, robust flavors of grilled salmon without overpowering them.
Gamay is a great choice, and like for raw salmon, you can also go for a Saignée rosé wine. If you are more into whites than into reds, pick a dry Pinot Gris (check the recommendations in the Asian-style salmon section below).
When barbecued with Cajun- or Creole-style spices, a more robust red is the right choice for a delicious wine and salmon match. Merlot or Zinfandel wines will do the job:
Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel 2019
- type: red, still, Vintage
- origin: United States, California
- varietal: Zinfandel
- alcohol: 15.0%
Rombauer El Dorado Twin Rivers Zinfandel 2019
- type: red, still, Vintage
- origin: United States, California
- varietal: Zinfandel
- alcohol: 16.0%
Hartford Russian River Old Vine Zinfandel 2019
- type: red, still, Vintage
- origin: United States, California
- varietal: Zinfandel
- alcohol: 16.0%
Smoked Salmon and Wine
Smoked salmon with onions and lemon (juice) is a traditional Christmas meal in some parts of Europe. But it is also a well-known breakfast dish when served with cream cheese on bread or toast. Match your salty smoked salmon and wine with a good level of acidity.
For red wine lovers, Grenache (or Garnacha as it is called in Spain) is a great option too. Its umami, smoky, and earthy flavors match perfectly with the taste of the smoked salmon. Besides, the medium tannins and decent acidity balance the fish’s fatty texture.
In case you prefer white wine, choose a German Riesling. Its citrus flavors are perfect for creating a delicious salmon and wine pairing:
Rebholz Von Rotliegenden Riesling Trocken 2020
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Pfalz, Germany
- varietal: Riesling
- alcohol: 12.0%
Burklin-Wolf Pfalz Estate Riesling Trocken 2020
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Pfalz, Germany
- varietal: Riesling
- alcohol: 12.0%
Von Winning Deidesheimer Paradiesgarten Riesling Erste Lage Trocken 2020
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Pfalz, Germany
- varietal: Riesling
- alcohol: 12.0%
Instead of white and red still wines, many gourmets opt for sparkling wines like Sekt or Champagne when enjoying smoked salmon. These sparkling wines offer a delightful fizz that cuts through the fattiness and saltiness of the fish, providing a refreshing palate cleanse with each sip. In addition, they complement the savory and smoky nuances perfectly. The crisp acidity and fine bubbles enhance the smoky aromas, elevating the overall taste experience. German Sekt brings a lively freshness with notes of green apple and citrus, while French Champagne, renowned for its complexity and elegance, offers flavors of brioche, almond, and subtle fruitiness.
- type: white, sparkling
- origin: Champagne, France
- varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- alcohol: 12.0%
- type: white, sparkling
- origin: Champagne, France
- varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- alcohol: 12.0%
- type: white, sparkling
- origin: Champagne, France
- varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- alcohol: 12.5%
- type: rosé, sparkling
- origin: Champagne, France
- varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- alcohol: 12.5%
Champagne Mouzon-Leroux L'Incandescent Rosé de Saignée Extra Brut
- type: rosé, sparkling
- origin: Champagne, France
- varietal: Pinot Noir
- alcohol: 12.0%
- type: rosé, sparkling
- origin: Champagne, France
- varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- alcohol: 12.0%
If you are open to some experimenting, you can also try Manzillado Sherry, which is a dry fortified wine from Spain.
Glazed Salmon and Wine
In Asian cuisine, salmon is often glazed and then grilled, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Techniques such as Teriyaki and Yakitori involve marinating the salmon in sweet and savory glazes, which typically include ingredients like brown sugar, honey, agave syrup, or pineapple juice. These glazes not only enhance the natural richness of the salmon but also caramelize beautifully when grilled, adding a delightful crispness to the exterior. Alternative methods like steaming or pan-searing can help to preserve the salmon’s moisture while allowing the glaze to infuse deeply, resulting in a succulent and flavorful dish.
Pair your sweet-glazed salmon with a wine that offers distinct citrus aromas. Many dry whites belong to this category, for instance, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, or Albariño.
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Alsace, France
- varietal: Gewürztraminer
- alcohol: 14.0%
Zind-Humbrecht Gewürztraminer 2019
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Alsace, France
- varietal: Gewürztraminer
- alcohol: 14.0%
Albert Boxler Gewürztraminer Reserve 2018
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Alsace, France
- varietal: Gewürztraminer
- alcohol: 14.0%
Fans of fortified wines can also pair glazed salmon preparations with Sherry Fino, which enhances the umami flavors of the dish.
Roasted or Poached Salmon and Wine
Another classic preparation for salmon involves a creamy topping, such as sauce béarnaise, which combines butter, egg yolks, and herbs for a rich, tangy flavor. A yogurt-cucumber dressing offers a refreshing contrast with its blend of creamy yogurt, crisp cucumbers, and a hint of garlic. A horseradish topping with dill adds a zesty kick, featuring the sharpness of horseradish balanced by the aromatic freshness of dill. Other delightful options include a lemon-dill cream sauce, which marries the brightness of lemon with the smoothness of cream, and a mustard-dill sauce, where the sharpness of mustard is softened by the creamy base and enhanced with dill. These toppings not only complement the salmon’s natural flavors but also elevate the dish to a gourmet experience.
The right pairing for these dishes is a semi-sweet or sweet wine, as these wines beautifully balance the richness and creaminess of the toppings. The sweetness in the wine complements the tangy and zesty elements of the sauces, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Additionally, the wine’s natural acidity cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast that elevates the dining experience. This harmonious pairing ensures that each bite of salmon is perfectly complemented by the wine’s nuanced flavors.
Great options are the formerly mentioned sweet Rieslings or still Moscato wines. In case you like sparkling wines, try a Lambrusco:
Cleto Chiarli Lambrusco Di Sorbara Vecchia Modena 2020
- type: red, sparkling, Vintage
- origin: Emilia-Romagna, Italy
- varietal: Lambrusco
- alcohol: 11.0%
- type: red, sparkling
- origin: Emilia-Romagna, Italy
- varietal: Lambrusco
- alcohol: 12.0%
Venturini Baldini Marchese Manodori Lambrusco
- type: red, sparkling
- origin: Emilia-Romagna, Italy
- varietal: Lambrusco
- alcohol: 12.0%
If you prefer dry wines, oak-aged Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are excellent choices. The oak-aged Chardonnay offers a rich, buttery texture with notes of vanilla and spice, which complement the creamy toppings and enhance the salmon’s natural flavors. Meanwhile, Sauvignon Blanc provides a crisp, refreshing acidity with citrus and herbal notes that cut through the richness of the dish, offering a lively contrast. Both wines bring out the best in the salmon, creating a balanced and sophisticated pairing.
Focus on those from the New World, for example, Australia:
Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2017
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Australia, Western Australia
- varietal: Chardonnay
- alcohol: 13.5%
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Australia, Western Australia
- varietal: Chardonnay
- alcohol: 13.0%
- type: white, still, Vintage
- origin: Australia, Western Australia
- varietal: Chardonnay
- alcohol: 13.0%
Asian Style Salmon and Wine
Fish is a key ingredient in many spicy meals from Vietnamese, Thai, or Indonesian cuisine, where it is often paired with bold and vibrant flavors. Dishes like Choo Chee salmon feature a rich, aromatic curry sauce infused with red chili paste, coconut milk, and kaffir lime leaves, creating a harmonious blend of fruity and spicy notes with a creamy texture. Thai Curry-style salmon, on the other hand, combines the heat of Thai chilies with the sweetness of coconut milk and the tanginess of lemongrass and lime, resulting in a complex and flavorful dish. These preparations highlight the salmon’s versatility, allowing it to absorb and complement the diverse spices and ingredients characteristic of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Pair these dishes with fruity white wines that capture the unique terroir of their regions, such as German Riesling or French Sémillon.
German Riesling, often grown in the cool climate and slate-rich soils of the Mosel Valley, offers vibrant acidity and notes of green apple, peach, and citrus, which beautifully complement the spicy and fruity flavors of the dishes. Its minerality and crispness provide a refreshing balance to the creamy textures.
French Sémillon, particularly from the Bordeaux region, thrives in gravelly soils and a maritime climate, resulting in wines with rich, honeyed notes and a full-bodied texture. This wine’s subtle fruitiness and roundness enhance the complexity of the salmon dishes.
While dry wines work well, an off-dry or semi-sweet style can further accentuate the interplay of sweet and spicy elements, creating a harmonious and delightful pairing.
Another alternative to pair Asian-style salmon and wine is Italian Pinot Grigio. These bottles are worth opening:
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2020
- type: white, still, dry, Vintage
- origin: Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige
- varietal: Pinot Gris
- alcohol: 12.5%
Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio 2019
- type: white, still, dry, Vintage
- origin: Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige
- varietal: Pinot Gris
- alcohol: 12.5%
- type: white, still, dry, Vintage
- origin: Italy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
- varietal: Pinot Gris
- alcohol: 13.0%
Asian Style Salmon Dish
What Wine Does Not Go with Salmon?
As a contrast to the great salmon and wine pairings, we have discussed, let us also talk about no-gos.
Strong tannic wines can overpower the delicate taste of salmon, as their robust nature tends to obscure the nuanced flavors of this exceptionally versatile fish, leading to an unbalanced culinary experience. The same is true for wines with high alcohol levels. Therefore, it is wise to avoid pairing heavy reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo with salmon.
Bold and overly oaky wines, which often have intense flavor profiles, can clash with salmon’s natural taste. Examples of wines to avoid include Rioja wines from Spain, and aged Bordeaux blends. All of them tend to overpower the delicate flavors of salmon.
FINAL WORDS
No matter which style of preparing and seasoning you choose, you will find multiple wine and salmon pairings that work fine. In the end, the perfect pairing is a question of personal preference. Thus, you should try different styles to find out which pairing you like best. And maybe it makes sense to offer your guests more than one option to choose from when hosting your next salmon dinner party.
