Red and white wine?

Question

It seems common knowledge that red wine goes with red meat and white wine with white meat and fish. However, why is this? Is it simply a common conception due to the colour or is there any fundamental gastronomic reason why they compliment there respective colours of meat?

A bit of a dull question I know but I enjoy red wine with either and it is sometimes frowned upon by those who consider themselves self proclaimed authorities on cuisine.

Answer 1

The red wines have a much higher amount of tannins. That "bite" on your tongue and mouth. The red color comes from making the wine with the skins on. The skins give the bitterness to the wine. White wines are more delicate. It is thought that red wines over-power light flavored meats (chicken, fish). It;s just personal preference. If you want to be happy and not have your friends look down their snobby wine noses at you, drink a Pinot Noir. Especially an Oregon one. They are delicious and lighter than a Cab or Merlot.

Answer 2

I don't like red wine so tend to drink white whatever the colour of meat, but then I'm a bit unconventional and only drink what I enjoy anyway. I see no reason why you shouldn't be able to drink red with chicken or fish if that is what you like.

Answer 3

I prefer white and my partner he prefers red,so whatever I cook I get a bottle of each and we both drink what WE like. There is no rules set in stone that if you are eating red meat you should drink red wine. Do what YOU want to.

Answer 4

The majority of red wines are better with red meat, as are the majority of whites with fish, chicken etc. But this is not always the case.
i too prefer red with fish etc.
don't listen to the 'self proclaimed authorities' its what you feel good with that counts.

Answer 5

This is generally because Red wine is a fuller bodied wine and is complimented best by richer foods , the same goes for white wine , complimented best by lighter foods such as chicken , pasta and fish.

Answer 6

Because red wine accentuates the flavour of red meat and red meat dishes, while white wine is perfect for lighter dishes. But despite that, I like my red regardless of what I am eating!

Answer 7

well, beef is usually denser in texture than fish, plus fish is a lighter food. So I guess those associations could be made. Plus, if red wine has a higher alcohol content than white, then it could be better to drink it with something like beef, which would help process the alcohol better.

Answer 8

I dont think it matters i personally dont like red wine so i have white with my meals and it always tastes good no matter what im eating x x x

Answer 9

I like red wine with either too - I think the days are gone when people do what is expected..... I do what I like, not what should be done!!

Answer 10

it is to do with flavours but as each one of us enjoys different combinations of tastes my advice to you is if you enjoy it the drink whatever you want.

a red is usually more full bodied and therefore goes better with the stronger flavours in red meat. but to be honest i am with you on this one i enjoy red with fish and white meat and vice versa

Enjoy