Cooking With Wine

Cooking with wine can add depth and complexity to a dish, as well as a subtle elegance. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, braising meats, or deglazing a pan, wine can be a great ingredient to have on hand in the kitchen and a great addition to a healthy meal.

When it comes to incorporating wine into the kitchen, it’s important to remember that the wine you use should be a wine that you would enjoy drinking. This is because the flavors and characteristics of the wine will come through in the final dish. So, if you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it!

Types of Wine for Cooking

There are a few different types of wine that can be used in cooking, each with its own unique characteristics.

• Red wine is often used for braising meats, as it adds a rich, robust flavor to the dish.
• White wine is a good choice for seafood dishes, as it can help to enhance the delicate flavors of the fish.
• A dry sherry can be used to deglaze pan and as base for creamy sauces.

Tips for Cooking with Wine 

Make a Reduction

One of the best ways to use wine in cooking is to make a reduction. A wine reduction is simply a sauce that is made by simmering wine down to a thicker, syrupy consistency. This process concentrates the flavors of the wine, making them much more intense. To make a wine reduction, simply pour the wine into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Let it simmer until it has reduced by half, then season it to taste.

Use Wine for a Marinade 

Another popular way to use wine in cooking is to marinate meats or fish in it. When marinating meat or fish, it’s important to make sure that the wine is well-combined with the other ingredients in the marinade. This will help to ensure that the wine infuses the meat or fish with its flavors. You can also use wine for making braising liquids to create a flavorful base.

Measure with Your Heart

When cooking with wine, it’s also important to keep in mind that a little bit goes a long way. A little wine can add a lot of flavor to a dish, but too much can overpower it. As a general rule, about a quarter to a half cup of wine for every four servings is a good place to start.

Pair Your Wine

Last but not least, don’t forget to pair your dish with the same wine you used in the recipe. It should be a perfect match to enjoy the full flavors! Pour a glass, and enjoy your meal!

Overall, cooking with wine can be a great way to add depth and complexity to a dish. With a little bit of know-how and a good bottle of wine, you can elevate your cooking to a whole new level. Experiment with different types of wine, and try out different techniques to see what you like best. Visit our tasting room where our staff can help you pick the perfect bottle!