The Best Wine Pairings for Caribbean Cuisine
Growing up and living in the Caribbean, enjoying a fine bottle of wine alongside our flavorful cuisine has always been an interesting decision process. For me, pairing wine with food is about enhancing the experience, whether it’s savoring a robust red with a perfectly grilled steak or relishing a crisp Pinot Grigio with a comforting pasta dish. Our Jamaican meals, rich in diverse flavors and spices, invite exploration with different wine types from varying regions. Picture jerk chicken or pork, or perhaps freshly grilled fish each dish offering its own unique pairing possibilities.
I do believe you can enjoy your favorite glass of wine with whatever you like and enjoy your meal. Wine pairing can be a very personal experience. With so many options available, here’s our list of wine recommendations tailored to our vibrant and multicultural Caribbean flavors.
- Grilled meats (steaks, lamb)
- Jerk chicken or pork
- Braised oxtail
- Roast chicken
- Meaty pasta dishes (e.g., lasagna)
- Grilled sausages
- Grilled fish (e.g., mahi-mahi)
- Mushroom risotto
- Caribbean-style curry dishes
Syrah/Shiraz:
- BBQ ribs
- Spicy jerk dishes
- Pepperpot stew
Zinfandel:
- BBQ pork or chicken
- Jamaican meat pies (patties)
- Smoked or jerked meats
Chardonnay:
- Grilled shrimp or lobster
- Creamy seafood pasta (e.g., Alfredo)
- Grilled or roasted chicken
Sauvignon Blanc:
- Grilled shrimp
- Seafood pasta
- Light vegetarian dishes (e.g., vegetable stir-fry)
Riesling:
- Spicy Caribbean cuisine (e.g., jerk chicken)
- Thai or Indian curries
- Pork or chicken with fruity sauces
Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris:
- Grilled fish or shrimp skewers
- Light seafood pasta
- Fresh vegetable dishes
Moscato:
- Spicy Caribbean dishes (e.g., jerk pork)
- Fruit-based desserts (e.g., pineapple upside-down cake)
- Spicy seafood dishes (e.g., shrimp with mango salsa)
Consider this guide a stepping stone on your journey of culinary exploration. Whether you're savoring your favorite Caribbean meals at home or indulging in them at a local restaurant, wine pairing adds a delightful dimension to the experience. As the old saying goes, 'if it grows together, it goes together,' so let's toast to discovering perfect pairings that enhance both food and wine.
Explore our wine selection and lets get going on your own flavorful adventure!
