Wine pairings for takeout food: Perfect Pairings for Classic Takeout - I’LL DRINK TO THAT

Just because you opted out of cooking dinner is no reason to opt out of a great drink. So keep the instant gratification flowing. To help, we asked Jeff and Karem Halaby of Lacombe Park Spirits to pick us some perfect pairings for these takeout classics. Here’s what they had to say.

Pad Thai — It’s always a safe choice to pair something spicy with something slightly sweet, such as a Riesling or a dry Gewürztraminer. But a particularly fantastic pairing for Pad Thai is a beer with some malty sweetness. Even if your preference is for lots of hops, look for a beer with just enough sweetness to push back against it.

Jeff’s picks: Smashberry White $19.99 (USA), Estrella Damm Lemon $3.50

Karem’s picks: Andreas Bender Kulina Riesling $19.99 (Germany), Green Flash West Coast IPA $10.50 (4-pk)

Burritos — Whether it’s bean or chipotle pork, a burrito or fajita pairs well with a dry Rosé or a Pinot Grigio that’s fruit-driven but not sweet. For lighter dishes, like fish tacos, try a Muscadet or a beer that’s clean tasting and won’t overpower light, bright flavours.

Jeff’s pick for a bold dish: Dal Cero Pinot Grigio Ramato $19.99 (Italy)

Karem’s pick for a bold dish: Grimbergen Double Ambreé $19.99 (6-pk)

Jeff’s pick for a mild dish: Lucky Buddha $18.99 (6-pk)

Karem’s pick for a mild dish: Calona Vineyards Sovereign Opal $14.99 (Canada)

Fried Chicken — Fried chicken begs for a high-acidity beverage to cut through all that delicious deep-fried goodness. So a crisp and bright sparkling wine, like Cava (or Champagne!), is a great choice. Another option, if you love your salty with your sweet, is to try a Riesling or even a Sauvignon Blanc.

Jeff’s picks: Michelle Sparkling Brut $16.99 (USA), Harp Lager $12.50 (6-pk)

Karem’s picks: Saint Clair Sauvignon Blanc $17.99 (New Zealand), Fuller’s Organic Honey Dew $4.99

Pizza — No surprises here. Chianti and pizza (especially a salty one) are a great match. The high acidity and medium body will cut through the richness of the cheese and make room for that all-important third or fourth slice.

Jeff’s picks: Dal Cero Montecchiesi Sangiovese $20.99 (Italy), Krombacher Pilsner $15.99 (6-pk)

Karem’s picks: El Petit Bonhomme (Spain) $15.99, Anchor Steam Beer $17.99 (6-pk)

Burgers & Fries — For a classic beef burger, you can’t go wrong with a smoky Syrah or a peppery Zinfandel. If it’s a beer you’re craving, try a full-bodied one that won’t get run over by bold sauces and condiments.

Jeff’s picks: H3 Cabernet Sauvignon (USA) $26.99, Dos Equis XX Amber Ale $16.99 (6-pk)

Karem’s picks: Matisses Carmenere (Chile) $17.99, Stone Brewing Co. Arrogant Bastard Ale $9.50

Pho — Navigating your way through a menu of seemingly endless pho can be difficult, but pairing a drink with it isn’t. Start and finish with a Thai beer—icy cold, perfectly carbonated, no glass required.

Jeff’s picks: Singha $16.99 (6-pk)

Karem’s picks: Chang $15.99 (6-pk)

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