The C-word has caused chaos in the supermarkets and madness in the markets but if you find your store cupboard is looking less than gourmet, never fear. Here's a handy guide to what wine to pair with your Pot Noodle and whether you should drink white or red with beans on toast.
As current events continue to push us into uncertain times, many of us have been denied our everyday pleasures. But for those that find solace and enjoyment in a glass of wine, the indulgence can remain, as exclusive (and free) online wine club Winebuyers continues to deliver bottles straight to our doors. (No payment has been made to me to share this. I just liked their press release)
As current events continue to push us into uncertain times, many of us have been denied our everyday pleasures. But for those that find solace and enjoyment in a glass of wine, the indulgence can remain, as exclusive (and free) online wine club Winebuyers continues to deliver bottles straight to our doors. (No payment has been made to me to share this. I just liked their press release)
With non-perishable snacks and tinned and packet based meals becoming the norm, whether instant noodles or beans on toast is your go-to, Winebuyers have selected the best wines to pair with our food cupboard favourites. (Prices listed after wine varieties refer to the price on the Winebuyers site, March 2020)
Baked Beans on Toast (or baked bean toasties which I love)
A national favourite, baked beans contain a reduction of sugar and vinegar that forms the base of the sauce. Look for fruit-driven reds from warm climates such as a Chilean Merlot or Aussie Shiraz.
Lorosco, Reserva Maipo, Merlot, 2017 £8.12
Grapes: Merlot
ABV: 13.5%
Intense, fresh, and fruity aromas of blackberries and plum combine with soft, toasty notes and sweet vanilla in this Merlot. Medium-bodied, soft tannins and a pleasant finish make this an ideal companion for a comforting plate of beans of toast.
Chicken and Mushroom Instant Noodles or Pot Noodle
Wine and soup (or broth) can be tricky to pair, but wine-friendly flavours chicken and mushroom are easy to match. Try pairing with a lightly oaked Chardonnay as it complements both meat and vegetables.
La Reverence, Chardonnay, 2018 £8.09
Grapes: Chardonnay
ABV: 13%
Pale, golden straw-like in colour with rich summer fruit aromas and peach and melon flavours on the palate, which are balanced by a fresh, crisp finish.
The combination of grapes from Roussillon and Minervois give this wine a buttery, fresh, and mineral profile.
Tuna Penne in Tomato Sauce
Picture a glossy and spiced tomato sauce flecked with tuna. What started as a cupboard raid is now a feast. This dish requires a red wine but nothing too tannic. The light tannins in Beaujolais are perfectly suited to the oily nature of the fish. Its medium body suits a richer tomato sauce.
Oedoria, L'Exception, Beaujolais Rouge, Beaujolais, 2017 £11.40
Grapes: Gamay
ABV: 12.5%
Intense in colour, this wine combines fruity aromas, smooth tannins and a pleasant structure.
Well-bodied, well balanced and an excellent example of a fuller flavoured Beaujolais.
Frozen Pea Soup
Natural sweetness in peas is brought to life with the aromatic and bright expressions of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Its crisp and herbaceous nature pairs well with grassy ingredients like peas.
Ward Valley, 'Triple Block', Sauvignon Blanc, 2018 £10.50
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc
ABV: 13%
Intensely aromatic and immediately appealing, the bouquet combines passionfruit, green melon, lime peel and feijoa aromas.
The palate is equally gorgeous with a bright, fruity intensity and vibrant mouthfeel with long finish.
Pesto Pasta
The simple but effective elements of pesto; grains, herbs, cheese and oil, pair with a wine that’s similarly effortless. Starch herbs and lipids also call for a white without too much fruit. The wine should have similar restraint and this Austrian Grüner will do just that.
Eschenhof Holzer, Wagram, Grüner Veltliner, 2018 £12.00
Grapes: Grüner Veltliner
ABV: 12%
An uncomplicated style, with fine acidity and fruit flavours resulting from the rich clay soils.
Peach, red apple and hints of spicy pepper characterise this vegan and organic dry white.
Instant Ramen
If a tasty ramen dish is your pantry pick, pair with lighter lagers, Sake, or a white wine with body and ‘spice’, as the velvety texture complements the noodles and broth.
Tatsuuma-Honke Brewery, Isaké Classic 'Junmai Ginjo' £26.50
Grapes: N/A
ABV: 14.5%
Born from a collaboration between a French Sommelier and a Japanese Saké expert, this wine is carefully designed to pair perfectly with dishes such as ramen.
Made with a unique blend of Saké rices, flavours of melon, peach and walnuts are on the palate with a long, intense finish.