A candlelit dinner for two is probably one of the most romantic ways to spend a few hours with someone in the early stages of dating. Sharing food and good wine takes some of the stress out of the occasion, as you have something else to focus on other than making conversation. A few glasses of wine can also ease social anxiety, and let’s face it, food is sensual and, therefore, sexy.
Whether you have booked a table at a bijou restaurant or are planning to host a meal at home, the right wine can make or break an evening. There are many different wines to choose from. The right choice will enhance your food, whereas the wrong choice could be disastrous.
We read an interesting article last week about pairing wine with food and we learned a lot from it. What we didn’t realize is that chemical compounds in some foods can make a massive difference to how food tastes. Who knew!
Read on to learn more useful tips from the wine experts at Underground Cellar.
Does Your Date Like Wine?
The first point is actually rather important. Strange as it may seem, not everyone likes wine. Some people are allergic to alcohol, are teetotal, or just prefer other beverages. It’s a good idea to check on your date’s preferences before ordering a bottle or buying a crate of expensive fizz for a special date.
If your date does like wine, check what kind of wine they like. Some people prefer red wine, others like white. Beyond this, ask them if they enjoy more robust wines, or would rather have a glass of light rose. Since good communication is the foundation of any happy relationship, listening attentively and taking the trouble to learn more about your date’s preferences will stand you in good stead for future dates.
Decide on the Food You Intend to Eat/Serve
Food and wine are inextricably linked, as we mentioned earlier. Some wines alter the flavor of certain foods, and not in a good way, whereas other wines enhance particular dishes. In a restaurant, it is wise to ask the sommelier which wine they recommend with a specific dish, as they’ll know the wine list much better than you. But if you are planning a romantic date night at home, it’s up to you to decide on the right food-wine pairing.
A general rule is that red, full-bodied wines go well with meat and fatty dishes, whereas acidic white wines are a good accompaniment to fish and lighter dishes. That said, a Grenache is a good choice for a spicy curry and a glass of Madeira will wash down a serving of chocolate dessert with aplomb. If in doubt, buy your wine from a wine merchant and ask for their advice.
Price
Always be ready to spend more on a good quality wine if you want to impress your date. The more expensive the wine, the better it will taste. Remember, cheap wine is cheap for a reason, and you don’t want your date to think you’re cheap too!
Take your time choosing wine for a romantic date. It will set the tone for the entire evening.
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