- 1). Select a recipe for roast chicken, paying attention to the herbs and spices that the chicken features. Since chicken itself tends to be fairly neutral in flavor, the marinades and seasonings tend to be more important when picking a wine.
- 2). Decide on red or white wine. While traditionally diners are advised to enjoy white wine with white meat and red wine with red meat, red wines can also complement the earthy, savory flavors of a roasted chicken. For example, chicken seasoned with garlic and pepper may go rather well with red wines such as pinot noir or rioja.
- 3). Make a list of the types of wines you like. Since everybody's tastes are different, it is important to know what you like. If you are opting for a red wine, make a note of specific wines you like and the characteristics of those wines. For instance, rather than oaky, earthy Malbecs, make it clear that you enjoy medium-bodied, fruit-forward bottles.
- 4). Search online for recommendations. A simple Google search for "wine pairings, roast chicken" will pull up several suggestions of wines that go well with roast chicken. Since you know the flavor profile of your bird, as well as your preference for white or red wines, it will be easier to pick a bottle from the many varieties you find online.
- 5). Ask a sommelier or someone who is familiar with wines when you are out dining or purchasing a bottle of wine. A sommelier is trained in wine tasting and can select a wine that embodies your favorite wine characteristics and will go well with roast chicken.
- 6). Grab a bottle. If you're still overwhelmed by the number of choices, pick a bottle of chardonnay or Riesling. A chardonnay's taste will lend some complexity to the dish, while a dry Riesling will be a bold choice that still doesn't overpower the chicken. Red-wine lovers can instead opt for a pinot noir with earth and spices to accent the flavor of the chicken. Alternatively, a côtes du rhône boasts warm, fruity flavors that complement the herbs that flavor many roast chickens, but refuses to overpower.
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