Salmon is a highly versatile fish which has an incredible rich flavor and delicate texture. It can be prepared in numerous ways and for a variety of occassions. Grilling salmon imparts a smoky flavor and crispy exterior, while steaming preserves its moistness and natural taste. Smoking salmon adds a depth of flavor, perfect for both hot and cold dishes. Poaching salmon gently cooks it in liquid, keeping it tender and juicy. Curing salmon in salt and sugar creates gravlax, a popular Scandinavian dish. Even braising salmon in a flavorful broth or sauce is an option.
In this article – we’ve tried to capture some of the different ways to cook salmon and some delicious flavor profiling for wines.
Chardonnay & Grilled Salmon Pairing
Chardonnay, especially a moderately oaked one, is a fantastic match for both poached and grilled salmon. This full-bodied white wine stands up to the rich, fatty flavors of salmon. Oaked Chardonnay offers roundness, with flavors of smoke and vanilla that complement the grilled nuances of salmon. You’ll also taste delightful notes of apple, peach, pear, and citrus, which contrast with the meaty flavors of the fish.
For poached salmon, which is rich yet subtle in flavor, Chardonnay brings creamy, smooth flavors such as mango, pear, pineapple, apricot, and peach, adding excitement without overpowering the delicate taste of the fish. Oaked Chardonnay also pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, salmon with tropical chutney or citrus fruit sauce, salmon in a cream sauce, or salmon prepared with coconut milk.
Roasted Salmon with Cream Sauce & Chardonnay Pairing
Once again, Chardonnay proves to be an excellent choice with salmon in nearly any form. Picture roasted salmon served with pasta in a creamy sauce. The buttery notes and toasty oak undertones of Chardonnay perfectly complement the rich texture of the salmon, while its crisp acidity balances the decadence of the cream sauce. As you sip, the wine’s flavors of citrus, apple, pear, and peach enhance the subtle sweetness of the salmon, and the buttery finish mirrors the creaminess of the sauce.
If your salmon is in a creamy lemon dill sauce, consider pairing it with Sauvignon Blanc. Bursting with lemon, lime, and grapefruit notes, Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon in the sauce and brightens up the rich flavors of the salmon. Its green herbal notes also go wonderfully with the dill flavors in the cream sauce.
Rosé & Salmon Pairing
Rosé wine, with its tart and cheerful character and salmon pink color, looks delightful alongside a dish of salmon. Crisp and smooth, Rosé features plenty of acidity to lift and cleanse the palate after each bite of fatty salmon, ensuring a fresh taste experience.
With bright flavors of cherry, strawberry, raspberry, and herbs, Rosé is incredibly refreshing. This crisp, clean, and affordable wine is perfect for enjoying on a sunny patio, during brunch, or on a picnic with salmon sandwiches, salmon kebabs, smoked salmon, or poached salmon.
Sauvignon Blanc & Poached Salmon Pairing
Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile wine known for its notes of lemon, lime, and grapefruit, which pair beautifully with the rich flavors of poached salmon. Even when poached, salmon is full of flavor, and the bold flavors of a crisp Sauvignon Blanc offer a refreshing contrast.
In addition to citrus flavors, Sauvignon Blanc is famous for its herbal and grassy notes, making it an excellent match for salmon accompanied by a dill sauce, salmon burgers, or salmon tartare. French Sauvignon Blanc, such as Sancerre, features notes of smoke, gunflint, and minerals, which make it a great choice with smoked salmon.
Beaujolais Cru & Salmon Pairing
Beaujolais Cru, a red wine similar to Pinot Noir in its light, fruity profile with a touch of earthiness, is an unexpected but delightful pairing with salmon. There are ten types of Beaujolais Cru, each varying in style, but all of them complement nearly any salmon dish.
This wine offers velvety flavors of raspberry, strawberry, cherry, plum, and cranberry, along with aromatic notes of spice, black pepper, earth, and violet. The refreshing flavors and high acidity of Beaujolais cut through any fatty flavors of salmon, ensuring each bite is rich and flavorful.
Conclusion
No matter how you prepare your salmon—grilled, roasted, poached, or in a creamy sauce—there’s a perfect wine to match. Whether you prefer white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, or if you’re feeling adventurous with a red like Beaujolais Cru or a refreshing Rosé, these pairings are sure to enhance your dining experience. Cheers to delicious food and perfect wine matches!
