How To Pair Wine with Breakfast Dishes

When we think about wine, we typically picture it being paired with dinner or special occasions. However, wine can be just as delightful when enjoyed with breakfast. The notion of wine at breakfast may seem unusual, but it is a practice that can elevate the first meal of the day, enhancing the flavors of dishes and offering a delightful balance between food and drink.

In this article, we will explore how to pair wine with breakfast dishes. From sweet to savory, from light and fluffy to hearty and rich, the key to a successful wine pairing lies in understanding the flavors, textures, and overall feel of the meal. Wine can bring out hidden nuances in breakfast dishes, just as it does with dinner courses, adding complexity and excitement to the morning routine.

Understanding Wine Pairing Basics

Before diving into the specifics of breakfast wines, it's important to have a foundational understanding of wine pairing principles. When pairing wine with food, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Acidity: Wine's acidity can complement or contrast the acidity of food. For instance, a bright, zesty white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with acidic foods such as tomatoes or citrus-based dishes.
2. Body: The body of the wine refers to its weight, mouthfeel, and texture. A light-bodied wine may feel crisp and refreshing, while a full-bodied wine is more robust and rich. Light wines generally pair better with lighter dishes, while heavier wines work well with more substantial meals.
3. Sweetness: A wine's sweetness can balance out spicy or salty foods. Sweet wines like Riesling or Moscato are ideal companions for dishes with a sweet or spicy profile.
4. Tannin: Tannins are compounds found in red wines that create a dry feeling in the mouth. While tannins can be harsh when paired with certain foods, they work wonderfully with rich, fatty meals that help soften the wine's natural bitterness.
5. Intensity: The strength of both the wine and the dish should match. A delicate dish should be paired with a more subtle wine, while bold and spicy foods need a wine that can hold its own.

General Rules for Breakfast Wine Pairings

With the basic principles of wine pairing in mind, let's look at some general guidelines when it comes to pairing wine with breakfast dishes:

• Light, refreshing wines (such as sparkling wines, whites, and light rosé) generally work well with lighter, more delicate breakfast dishes like eggs, fruit, and pastries.
• Full-bodied, richer wines (like bold reds or creamy whites) can be paired with more hearty breakfasts, such as those involving meats or rich egg preparations.
• Sparkling wines are versatile and can pair well with a range of breakfast dishes, from sweet to savory. The effervescence cleanses the palate and complements everything from pancakes to smoked salmon.
• Sweet wines can enhance breakfast treats like waffles, French toast, and fruit-filled dishes, balancing their sweetness with an elegant complexity.

Pairing Wine with Classic Breakfast Dishes

1. Egg Dishes

Egg-based breakfasts are a staple for many people around the world. Whether scrambled, fried, poached, or in an omelet, eggs offer a neutral canvas that allows a variety of wines to shine.

• Scrambled Eggs : The light, creamy texture of scrambled eggs pairs well with a crisp, clean white wine. A Chardonnay (particularly unoaked) with its bright acidity and fruit-forward profile complements the richness of scrambled eggs without overwhelming them. Another good option is a Sauvignon Blanc, which provides a refreshing contrast to the softness of the eggs.
• Omelets : The versatility of omelets allows for many different wine options, depending on the fillings. If the omelet contains fresh herbs and vegetables, a Pinot Grigio or Albariño works well due to their herbal, citrusy qualities. For a richer omelet with cheese or mushrooms, a fuller-bodied Chardonnay can enhance the depth of flavors.
• Poached Eggs : The delicate texture of poached eggs, especially when served with smoked salmon or a hollandaise sauce, is best complemented by a Champagne or other sparkling wine. The bubbles help to cleanse the palate and add a celebratory touch to this elegant dish.

2. Pancakes and Waffles

Sweet, fluffy pancakes and waffles are breakfast favorites, often served with syrup, fruit, or whipped cream. Pairing them with wine requires balancing the sweetness of the dish with the complexity of the wine.

• Pancakes with Syrup : For a classic stack of pancakes with maple syrup, try a Moscato d'Asti, a slightly sweet and effervescent wine that complements the sugary sweetness of the syrup without overpowering it. The light effervescence lifts the sweetness and creates a refreshing balance.
• Waffles with Fruit : A fruit-topped waffle, especially if it includes berries or citrus, pairs nicely with a Riesling. The wine's natural sweetness and acidity complement the fresh fruit, enhancing both the sweetness and the tang of the toppings.

3. Bacon and Sausage

For heartier breakfasts involving bacon, sausage, or other fatty meats, you'll want a wine with enough structure to handle the richness of these dishes.

• Bacon : A classic breakfast pairing with bacon is a Pinot Noir . This light-bodied red wine has low tannins and a bright fruitiness that cuts through the salty, smoky flavors of bacon. Alternatively, a Zinfandel can also work well if you prefer a bolder choice.
• Sausage : For sausages, particularly those with a spicier profile (like chorizo or Italian sausage), a Grenache or Syrah works wonderfully. The fruity, peppery qualities of these wines complement the savory, spicy character of the sausage.

4. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast has become a trendy breakfast dish, known for its creamy texture and versatility in toppings. Depending on what you add to the toast, the wine pairing can vary.

• Basic Avocado Toast : For a simple avocado toast topped with olive oil, lemon, and salt, a light and crisp Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice. The wine's citrusy and herbal notes complement the creamy avocado and bright acidity of the lemon.
• Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs : If you add a poached egg or smoked salmon to your avocado toast, a sparkling wine such as Prosecco or Champagne is an ideal choice. The effervescence balances the richness of the avocado and eggs, while adding an extra layer of refinement.

5. Pastries

Sweet pastries, such as croissants, Danish, or cinnamon rolls, are a delightful breakfast treat that pairs well with sweet wines or light sparkling options.

• Croissants : For a buttery, flaky croissant, consider a glass of Champagne or Prosecco. The lightness of the sparkling wine won't overpower the delicate pastry, and the bubbles provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery flavor.
• Cinnamon Rolls : The warm, spiced flavor of a cinnamon roll pairs beautifully with a Late Harvest Riesling or a Vin Santo. The sweetness of these wines matches the sugary icing and cinnamon-spice notes of the roll, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

6. Fruit-Based Dishes

Fresh fruit or fruit salads are common in breakfast spreads, often served with yogurt or granola. These lighter, refreshing dishes are best paired with wines that highlight the freshness and natural sweetness of the fruit.

• Fruit Salad : A light, fresh Prosecco or Vinho Verde works well with fruit salads. These wines are crisp and refreshing, with a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy and juicy nature of the fruit.
• Citrus-based Dishes : For dishes featuring citrus fruits, such as orange slices, grapefruit, or lemon-infused yogurts, a Chardonnay with a touch of oak or a Chenin Blanc with its slight sweetness and citrusy flavors makes a perfect match.

Conclusion

Pairing wine with breakfast dishes is a delightful way to elevate your morning meal and introduce an element of sophistication to the start of your day. While the idea of drinking wine at breakfast may seem unusual to some, it offers a unique opportunity to explore new flavor combinations and enhance the overall dining experience. Whether you are enjoying a light and refreshing dish like avocado toast or a hearty plate of bacon and eggs, there is a wine to complement every aspect of your breakfast.

By understanding the basic principles of wine pairing and considering the flavors, textures, and acidity of your breakfast dishes, you can craft a perfect pairing that enhances both the wine and the food. So, next time you sit down for breakfast, consider reaching for a bottle of wine to complete your meal and enjoy a truly elevated start to your day.

View Product