How to Choose Wine for Different Foods and Occasions

A Simple Guide to Choosing Wine

With so many wine varieties available, choosing one can sometimes feel complicated.

You don’t need to be a wine expert, however. A few basic ideas can help adults of legal drinking age narrow down their choices.

Red Wine

Red wines range from light and fruit-forward to rich and full-bodied.

They are commonly considered alongside foods such as:

• Pasta with tomato-based sauces
• Roasted vegetables
• Mushroom dishes
• Richer meat dishes
• Aged cheeses

Rather than following a strict rule, consider the intensity of both the food and the wine.

White Wine

White wines can range from crisp and refreshing to creamy and full-bodied.

They are commonly paired with foods such as:

• Seafood
• Chicken dishes
• Salads
• Light pasta
• Soft cheeses
• Vegetable dishes

A lighter meal will often work well with a lighter-style wine.

Rosé

Rosé is versatile because its flavour profile can sit somewhere between traditional red and white wines.

It can complement salads, grilled vegetables and a variety of lighter meals.

Sparkling Wine

Sparkling wine is often associated with celebrations, but it can also accompany food.

Different varieties range from dry to sweet, so checking the bottle description can help you find the appropriate style.

Consider the Occasion

The event itself can also help determine what to choose.

For dinner, think about the main dish. For gifts, consider what the recipient normally enjoys. For gatherings, providing several options—including alcohol-free beverages—can accommodate more guests.

Explore the Wine Selection at Avalon Liquor

Avalon Liquor in Saskatoon carries wine alongside beer, spirits and other beverage categories.

Product availability changes, so browsing current selections is a useful way to discover new options.

Alcohol should only be purchased and consumed by people who meet the applicable legal-age requirements. Please enjoy responsibly.