The word “wine” is one of the most sought after on the Free Market since April this year, according to data recently released by the company.
Another survey carried out by the subscription club wine in partnership with MindMiners, shows that the drink is the current favorite of 49% of Brazilians and that 43% of them choose wine for a special dinner or when they have guests at home.
Of course, the interest is directly associated with the drop in temperature, which, consequently, is the period in which we usually increase meetings at home. But what makes the combination of cold and wine so harmonious?
First, it is worth remembering that alcohol is a vasodilator, which has a more, shall we say, “comforting” effect on the body compared to the cold. Therefore, there is an increase in the consumption of alcoholic beverages in general. It is no wonder that countries like Scotland, the Czech Republic or Russia, which have very severe winters, are among the biggest consumers in the world.
And not just on the coldest days, of course. The “forced” intimate atmosphere during the first years of the Covid-19 pandemic was extremely inviting to wine – wine club subscriptions skyrocketed in this period.
Another explanation – and perhaps the most likely of them – is that, with lower temperatures, we seek a certain breath that wine, as well as food, provides. In winter, our body asks for an extra dose of clothes, but also for forkfuls and – why not say – drinks that help to warm up and snuggle.
Which wines to choose in winter?
There is no denying that reds fulfill this role better than any other style of wine: in addition to generally having a higher alcohol content, they can be consumed at a slightly higher temperature, usually between 16 and 18 degrees.
The body of the wine will also influence the warming sensation. Therefore, it is natural that Argentine wines made from Malbec and Syrah and Chileans made from Cabernet Sauvignon are leading the way in the Free Market. Other excellent options that follow the same line are grapes such as Tannat, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Tempranillo.
But calm down, if your preference is not for reds, all is not lost. It is possible to let yourself be embraced by other styles of wine in winter that carry the same characteristics of opulence, especially if accompanied by a good dish.
Classic pairings for the cold
Cheese fondue
There are many ways to prepare cheese fondue and the wine must be chosen according to the final flavor intensity of the dish. But, in general, whites with good acidity and some greasiness, like a Chardonnay or lighter, fresher reds such as Gamay and Pinot Noir will help to cleanse the taste of the cheese fat.
Margherita pizza
In pizza, not only the cheese stands out, but also the acidity of the tomato sauce and basil. More fruity wines with some herbaceous touch, like a chianti will complement the flavors without overshadowing the delicacy of the pizza ingredients.
Risotto with mushrooms (mushrooms)
Pairing by similarity is a classic here: wines that bring more earthy notes, such as Syrah and Pinot Noir will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Polenta with beef ragu
The possibilities are wide: from a Jerez Oloroso to a red without passing through a barrel and with good acidity, like a barbera or Merlot can be delicate enough for the polenta, but still match the flavor intensity of the meat.
feijoada
With a high intensity of flavor and fat, the favorite dish of Brazilians calls for a wine that has an equivalent structure. It works well here either one Tannat how much one lambrusco with good body and vibrant acidity.
Pri Matta
Pri is a journalist, sommelière and creator of the channel @deondevinho on Instagram, she makes it clear that she doesn’t talk about wines there, but about moments. It’s just that wine is in everyone!
Source: CNN Brasil
