Ready to start the Cinco de Mayo celebrations, but not really feeling the Corona and tequila vibe this year? You've come to the right place! My world has revolved around Cinco de Mayo since I was a kid growing up in my family's Tex-Mex restaurant and while I love a good margarita, I'm up to the challenge of providing you with a few tacos + wine pairings! Who's hungry?
My biggest suggestion when it comes to pairing Mexican dishes and wine, is avoid tannin. High tannins mixed with a lot of spice is going to give your wine a highly alcoholic taste and the flavors of your dish will be lost. Going for fruit forward wines like California Pinot Noir or Zinfandel are a good call but you’ll find lots of great whites to pair as well! Here are a few great pairings for you:
Fish Tacos + Sauvignon Blanc
Fish Tacos are a dream when it comes to summertime snacks and drinks. Try this recipe from Food Network, top with a little cilantro, and pair with a refreshing New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc! Sauvy B is light and refreshing and known for its green flavors which will complement the cilantro on top of your tacos! Grab this Infamous Goose Sauvignon Blanc, a classic NZ Sauvy B for just $16!
Tacos al Pastor + Zinfandel
Tacos al Pastor has to be a favorite of mine! Juicy, marinated pork with earthy and chile flavors and topped with a slice of fresh pineapple, *chef's kiss!* Pair with a juicy California Zinfandel like this Folie à Deux that I am loving right now! The juicy meat and fruit-forward wine will combine and your taste buds will do a happy dance.
Chorizo Tacos + Cremant
I love chorizo and I love bubbles, so why not! Chorizo is a well seasoned and a little spicy sausage that is great in a number of Mexican dishes. A chorizo taco for me is simple, topped with cilantro and onion, but would also be great with a little cotija cheese or even creamy goat cheese! Then we have the bubbles - a great pair for both the spice and creamy cheese. Most bubbly is low in alcohol which works well with a spicier dish and the citrusy flavors pair well. Try the Calvet Crémant de Bordeaux Brut which is only $18, making it a super affordable alternative to Champagne!
Carne Asada Tacos + Malbec
Carne Asada literally means grilled meat and Malbec is a great match for grilled meats! You can try this Carne Asada recipe using a mojo marinade and topped with Pico de Gallo or keep it super simple street taco style with a little cilantro, white onion, and a fresh squeeze of lime! I'm pairing with Viamonte Larrea Reserva Malbec, a classic Mendoza Malbec you can grab for just $18!
Chicken Tacos + Vinho Verde
Whether it's grilled or pulled, you're pretty safe with some chicken tacos. Keep it simple by dressing them with cilantro and onion, make a fresh Pico de Gallo, or make this delicious Roasted Tomatillo Salsa to drizzle on top! Either way, you're good to go with Vinho Verde, a Portuguese white blend known to have bright acidity and brings lime, grapefruit, and yellow apple. Can't find Vinho Verde? Try a Riesling!
Think you're trying any of these out? If you do, be sure to share and tag me on Instagram @thewinonextdoor !! I want to be in on ALL the Cinco de Mayo festivities whether you are celebrating with margs or wine - Or both!! Have fun with these and enjoy!! xoxo