Here at Swagath Restaurant and Bar – your favourite spot for high-end family dining in Delhi, we believe that a culinary journey is incomplete without the perfect beverage to accompany your meal. While wine has been a constant companion to many exquisite cuisines around the world, you might be surprised to learn that it pairs seamlessly with Indian dishes, too. Care for our favourite wine selections?
In this blog, we’re going to unravel the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine and explore the fascinating world of wine pairing. We’ll address the misconception that wine and Indian food don’t complement each other’s flavours and show you how, when done right, it’s a match made in gastronomic heaven.
But wine sounds so exotic and foreign. How can it be associated with India and its tastes?
Well, it is! This glorious nation has a rich history, especially when it comes to its food and liquor. India, with its ancient traditions, has a rich history of winemaking dating back thousands of years.
The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s oldest, crafted wines from fruits, flowers, and even grains. Today, while Indian wines have earned their place on the world stage, they remain an excellent choice to accompany a wide array of Indian dishes.
Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and each region boasts its unique flavours and ingredients. To truly appreciate the art of wine selection for Indian dishes, it’s essential to consider the type of cuisine you’re enjoying.
Let’s explore some popular Indian cuisines and their perfect wine pairings:
North Indian cuisine is known for its rich and creamy gravies, tandoori delights, and aromatic biryanis. When indulging in classics like Butter Chicken or succulent Seekh Kebabs, opt for a fruity white wine like a Riesling or a slightly chilled Pinot Noir.
In Indian wines, Sula Vineyards’ Riesling or Grover Zampa’s Viognier, grown in the Nashik region, make a great companion for North Indian delicacies.
The crisp acidity of these wines complements the creaminess of North Indian dishes, while the fruity notes accentuate the spices.
South Indian cuisine boasts a myriad of flavours, from spicy curries to tangy chutneys and crispy dosas. For dishes like Masala Dosa or fiery Chicken Chettinad, a light and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine like Prosecco can be a perfect choice.
In our desi selection, we’d recommend Indian wines like Fratelli’s Sauvignon Blanc or Sula Vineyards’ Brut Tropicale.
The zesty character of these wines cuts through the heat and complements the bright and bold South Indian flavours.
Mughlai cuisine, known for its aromatic biryanis, rich kormas, and kebabs, deserves a wine that stands up to its opulence. A robust and full-bodied red wine like Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon is the ideal companion.
You may also consider Indian wines available at any fine dining Indian restaurant, such as KRSMA Estates’ Sangiovese or Sula Vineyards’ Dindori Reserve Shiraz crafted in the Karnataka region.
These wines’ depth and tannins complement the intense flavours and textures, creating a harmonious pairing.
The coastal regions of India offer an abundance of seafood delicacies and coconut-infused curries. For dishes like Goan Fish Curry or Kerala’s Meen Molee, consider a crisp and dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Chenin Blanc.
This cuisine also pairs wonderfully with Indian wines like Big Banyan’s Chardonnay or Fratelli’s Chenin Blanc from the Karnataka region, which are also considered the Best wines for Indian cuisine, Coastal delicacies in particular!
Sip on these delectable varieties as they bring a crisp and refreshing character that complements the creaminess of coconut and the freshness of seafood.
Punjabi cuisine is synonymous with hearty and spicy dishes like Punjabi Chicken Curry and spicy kebabs. The bold flavours call for an equally robust wine, such as a Malbec or a Syrah.
Its companions in Indian wines are Sula Vineyards’ Shiraz or Fratelli’s Syrah, grown in the Nashik region.
These wines have the structure and spice to complement the Punjabi palate.
In each of these pairings, it’s the careful selection of wine that enhances the dining experience. When done right, wine doesn’t overpower Indian flavours; it elevates them, creating a delightful synergy.
So, the next time you visit our multi-cuisine Indian restaurant in Chandigarh or Delhi, explore our premium wine selections for Indian cuisine and embark on a journey that will broaden your appreciation for the versatility of both Indian dishes and wine. Come and savour the magic of Indian cuisine, one sip at a time with Swagath.