What Wine Goes With Ham?
Do you want to serve something special for dinner but don’t know what wine goes with ham? Finding the perfect pairing of meat and wine can be daunting, especially if you’re looking for more than just a drinkable accompaniment. With a few easy steps, though, you can learn how to select a well-matched bottle of vino that enhances both your ham and your meal as a whole. From rose wines to crisp white varieties and light reds, discover the secrets of finding an ideal pairing today!
What is wine?
Wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes or other fruits. It has been enjoyed around the world for thousands of years and is known for its complex flavors, aromas, and textures. In addition to being a popular drink, wine also holds cultural significance in many societies. Wine can be paired with food, used in religious ceremonies, or served as part of a toast. Depending on the type of grape used to make it, wine can be white, red or rosé (a mixture of both). Generally speaking, white wines are lighter-bodied and have fewer tannins than their red counterparts. As well as still wines there is sparkling wine which has been carbonated either naturally through fermentation or artificially adding carbon dioxide afterwards. Wine can range in alcohol content from non-alcoholic to fortified, which is wine that has had brandy added to it.
What is Ham?
Ham is a type of cured pork. It is usually made from the hind leg of the pig and can be smoked, boiled, or baked. Ham has been popular for centuries due to its long shelf life and versatile flavor. There are many different types of ham available in stores today, including honey-baked ham, city hams, country hams, and deli meats such as prosciutto. Regardless of the variety you choose, it is important to check for freshness before purchasing as some hams may have gone bad over time. When cooked correctly, ham adds an amazing flavor to any dish and makes a delicious addition to sandwiches or salads. Additionally, it can also be used in recipes such as soups or casseroles. Ham is an easy and tasty way to add a new dimension of flavor to your cooking. Enjoy!
Red or White Wine with Ham?
When pairing red or white wine with ham, you should always consider the types of flavors you want to bring out. If you are serving a smoked or cured ham, then a dry, crisp white wine is usually a good choice. The subtle sweetness and tartness in the wine will complement the smoky flavors of the ham. On the other hand, if you are looking for something richer and fuller-bodied to pair with your ham dish, try a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. These wines can provide layers of earthiness and spice that stand up nicely against salty pork dishes. Experiment with different options until you find a flavor profile that works best for your tastes!
What Wine Goes With Ham?
White Wine:
1.Riesling with Ham
If you’re in the mood for a delicious pairing, look no further than Riesling and ham. This dynamic duo is the perfect burst of flavor your taste buds have been waiting for. With a high acidity that complements salty foods, you’ll be savoring every bite alongside your glass of off-dry Riesling. And if you’re a fan of honey-glazed ham, this wine pairs beautifully with those sweet notes. Plus, the flavor profile of Riesling harmonizes perfectly with peaches, making it the ultimate choice for a summertime feast. Just keep in mind that not all Riesling is sweet, so be sure to find the perfect bottle that suits your palate. Trust us, this pairing is worth the hunt.
2.Pinot Gris
Did you know that the white wines Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris all grow in Germany or near its borders? And it’s no coincidence that Germany is also known for their ham. The rule is simple: if it grows together, it goes together. If your taste buds prefer fruity wines with hints of apple, pear, or peach, Pinot Gris is definitely worth trying. It perfectly balances the acidity of Gewurz and the full body of Riesling. For the ultimate Pinot Gris experience, consider trying a bottle from Alsace or Oregon. And in case you were wondering, Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are the same grape variety – the only difference is that Pinot Grigio is made in a lighter, crisper Italian style. All in all, Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio is an excellent choice to pair with ham.
3.Prosecco
As a hospitality expert, I highly recommend serving your guests a sparkling wine to truly elevate any meal. If you’re wondering what would be the perfect pairing with your succulent ham, look no further than a lovely bottle of Prosecco. With its light and refreshing bubbles, Prosecco has the unique ability to lift the flavors of salty and fatty dishes. And don’t worry about it being too dry, as the subtle sweetness of Prosecco will perfectly balance any sweet glazes you may have added. Trust me, your guests will thank you for treating them to such a delightful experience.
4.Gewürztraminer
Are you looking for a wine to pair with your ham that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than Gewurztraminer! This delightful wine has off-dry styles that perfectly complement any fruit glaze. The aromatics of Gewurztraminer are both spicy and perfumed, making it the perfect pairing for spice-rubbed or gingered ham. And the best part? The sweetness of the ham will tame any spiciness in the wine, creating a seamless flavor experience. For the ultimate Gewurztraminer experience, try a bottle from the Alsace region in France, located on the border of Germany.
5.Viognier
Viognier is the peachy perfection your holiday dinner needs. Its aroma is reminiscent of juicy peaches, and adds a touch of elegance to your Christmas ham. But Viognier isn’t a one-trick pony – when aged in oak, it takes on the scent of nostalgic donuts. This unique bouquet complements ham with a maple syrup and brown sugar cinnamon glaze, creating a harmonious and unforgettable pairing. So don’t settle for a boring wine selection this holiday season – choose the delicious and dynamic Viognier.
6.Sauvignon Blanc
If you’re on the hunt for a wine that is sharp and to the point, a classic Sauvignon Blanc is calling your name. The acidity of this wine is a perfect match for the salt and fat in ham, making it a winning combination. For an extra touch of sweetness, opt for a Sauv Blanc from Bordeaux that is blended with Semillon, which will undoubtedly elevate the honey flavors if your ham is glazed in this flavor.
Red Wine
1.Gamay
As a sommelier, my love for Beaujolais runs deep. There’s just something special about the way this French region produces the Gamay grape – bursting with fruity notes, yet light and oh so delicious. It’s a flavor profile that always leaves a lasting impression.
2.Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a beloved wine variety that’s light, flavorful, and packs a refreshing acidic punch. It’s a perfect pairing for ham dishes, particularly if you’re going for a smoked or cherry-glazed ham. If you’re looking to pair Pinot Noir with herbs and spices, you might want to explore the earthy notes present in Oregon and Burgundy Pinot Noir varieties. And if you’re looking to amp up the red fruit flavors in a fruit glaze, opting for a Pinot Noir from New Zealand or California might be just the right move.
3.Grenache
Grenache: The Crowd-Pleasing, Versatile Food Wine You’ve Been Overlooking
If you’re the designated wine-picker for holiday gatherings, it’s high time you gave Grenache a closer look. This often-overlooked grape brings plenty of firepower to the table, with a flavor profile that’s both fruity and herbal. Even if you’re feeding a mixed crowd with differing palates, Grenache is a wine that will tick all the boxes. Don’t be surprised if you end up becoming everyone’s new favorite sommelier. So why not add a few bottles of Grenache to your Christmas feast this year and toast to your newfound wine-pairing expertise?
4. Tempranillo
Looking for a country that can match Spain’s love for pig’s leg? It might be hard to find, but one thing’s for sure: when it comes to pairing ham with Tempranillo, Spain’s got the competition beat. This full-bodied wine is a natural match for the salty richness of ham, offering up notes of fruit and spice with a structure and acidity that can’t be beat. And if you’re looking to take your ham to the next level, go bold with a spice rub that’ll really make the flavors pop. Spain may have started the pig leg game, but when it comes to pairing it with wine, Tempranillo takes the crown.
FAQs about What Wine Goes With Ham
What drinks are not recommended to pair with a ham dinner?
It is generally not recommended to pair acidic drinks such as orange juice, lemonade or sodas with a ham dinner. Additionally, alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine should be avoided as they can overpower the flavor of the ham. Opt instead for milder drinks like water, tea or milk-based beverages to ensure that the taste of the meal isn’t altered. Fruit juices with low acidity levels also make good accompaniments to ham dinners. Lastly, if you do choose to have a carbonated beverage, opt for one with a lighter flavor profile like seltzer or ginger ale. Whatever your choice may be, try to pick something that complements rather than clashes with the flavors in your meal. Enjoy!
Are there any tips for storing leftover wine after a ham dinner?
Yes, there are a few tips for storing leftover wine after a ham dinner.
First, if the wine is open, transfer it to an airtight container or bottle and store in the refrigerator. This will help keep oxygen out and slow down oxidation of the wine.
Second, if the wine hasn’t been opened yet, store it in a cool spot away from direct sunlight where temperatures don’t fluctuate too much. The ideal temperature range should be between 45-65°F (7-18°C). It’s also important to protect your unopened wines from extreme humidity levels which can cause corrosion on the cork over time.
Third, make sure you write down the name and vintage of the wine so you can easily identify it later. You can also label any opened bottles or containers with a date to keep track of how long the wine has been stored.
Finally, make sure that your leftover wine is consumed within two days for the best flavor and quality. Enjoy!
What Types of Cheese Pair Well With Ham and Wine?
Cheeses that pair well with ham and wine vary widely, depending on personal preference. For a classic pairing, try a nutty Alpine-style cheese like Gruyere or Comte. With its slightly sweet, buttery flavor and creamy texture, Brie is another great option for this combination. More robust flavors come from blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola Dolce. Harder Italian cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano provide a salty contrast to the sweetness of the wine and smokiness of the ham. A semi-soft Spanish Murcia al Vino pairs deliciously with jamón serrano (cured Spanish ham) and Rioja wines. For something bolder, a sharp cheddar or aged Gouda will provide a heartier flavor profile that stands up to both the ham and red wine. No matter what type you choose, enjoy your pairing with a glass of premium wine and conversation among friends!
Conclusion on What Wine Goes With Ham
Ultimately, the pairing between what wine goes with ham can be incredibly diverse, exciting and dynamic. From light and fruity pinesses to dry sparkling ciders, the right choice will enhance the sweet notes found in your desired ham dish. We’ve explored a few of the most popular and flavorful pairings for ham; however, feel free to explore beyond these recommendations based on ingredients related to your particular dish or recipe at hand. Keep an open mind as you venture into the never-ending adventure of exploring what wine goes with ham! Give each option a try before committing and get your taste buds ready for an experience like no other two flavors could create. Keeping a few of these food & wine pairing tips close by will be sure to give your holiday meal a wonderful finishing hint of sophistication. So go ahead, do a little research and experience what wine goes with ham today.