When it comes to pairing wine with a meal, finding the perfect match can enhance the dining experience. One classic dish that often makes its appearance on special occasions is ham and scalloped potatoes. The richness and complexity of this dish call for a wine that can complement and elevate the flavors. Here are some suggestions on what wine goes best with ham and scalloped potatoes.
1. Chardonnay: This full-bodied white wine with its buttery texture and flavors of apple and vanilla pairs excellently with the creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes.
2. Pinot Noir: The light to medium-bodied red wine with its fruity and earthy flavors is a great choice to balance the saltiness and smokiness of the ham.
3. Riesling: The slightly sweet and aromatic nature of Riesling can complement the salty and savory flavors of the ham and potatoes.
4. Gewürztraminer: This white wine with its floral and spicy undertones can add a unique dimension to the meal, enhancing the flavors of both the ham and scalloped potatoes.
5. Rosé: If you prefer a lighter and refreshing option, a dry or off-dry rosé can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
6. Zinfandel: This red wine with its bold and fruity flavors can stand up to the strong flavors of the ham and provide a nice balance.
7. Sparkling Wine: Celebratory occasions call for some bubbly! The effervescence and acidity of sparkling wine can cut through the richness of the dish and cleanse the palate.
8. Syrah/Shiraz: The bold and spicy flavors of Syrah or Shiraz can complement the smoky and salty flavors of the ham.
9. Sauvignon Blanc: The crisp and citrusy flavors of Sauvignon Blanc can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
10. Beaujolais: This light-bodied red wine with its fruity and earthy flavors can pair well with the ham and scalloped potatoes, complementing their flavors without overpowering them.
11. Malbec: The medium-bodied red wine with its fruity and spicy characteristics can enhance the flavors of both the ham and scalloped potatoes.
12. Merlot: This versatile red wine with its smooth texture and flavors of black cherry and plum can be a safe and enjoyable choice for pairing with ham and scalloped potatoes.
FAQs:
1. Can I pair white wine with ham and scalloped potatoes?
Yes, white wines like Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Sauvignon Blanc can complement the flavors of the dish.
2. Can I pair red wine with ham and scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! Red wines like Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah/Shiraz, Beaujolais, Malbec, and Merlot can all be excellent choices.
3. What if I prefer a sweeter wine?
If you have a preference for sweeter wines, you can opt for a slightly sweet Riesling or a dessert wine like Moscato.
4. Is sparkling wine a good pairing?
Yes, sparkling wine can be a great choice as the bubbles and acidity can cleanse the palate and cut through the richness of the dish.
5. Can I pair rosé with ham and scalloped potatoes?
Certainly! A dry or off-dry rosé can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
6. Should I consider the type of ham when choosing a wine?
Yes, the type of ham can influence the wine pairing. For example, a smoked ham may pair well with a bolder red wine like Zinfandel or Syrah/Shiraz.
7. Can I pair a white wine with a glazed ham?
Yes, a white wine like Chardonnay can complement the sweetness of a glazed ham.
8. Are there any specific vintages or regions to consider?
While there are no hard and fast rules, you can explore wines from regions known for producing excellent examples of the recommended varietals, such as Burgundy for Pinot Noir or California for Chardonnay.
9. Can I pair a full-bodied red wine with scalloped potatoes?
Yes, full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux blends can work well with scalloped potatoes, especially if they have additional ingredients like bacon or mushrooms.
10. Should I consider the ingredients in the scalloped potatoes when choosing a wine?
Yes, if your scalloped potatoes have additional ingredients like cheese or herbs, you can consider wines that complement those flavors. For example, a herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc can pair well with potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs.
11. Can I pair a rosé Champagne with ham and scalloped potatoes?
Yes, a rosé Champagne can be a delightful and elegant choice for pairing with this dish.
12. Can I serve different wines for different guests’ preferences?
Certainly! Offering a variety of wines allows guests to choose the one that best suits their preferences and enhances their dining experience.