How to Pair Vietnamese Mezes with Wine

Vietnamese mezes, small dishes that showcase the country’s vibrant flavors, are gaining popularity around the world. Pairing these delightful bites with the right wine can elevate your dining experience, allowing you to explore the intricate tastes of Vietnamese cuisine. Here’s a guide on how to pair Vietnamese mezes with wine for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Understanding Vietnamese Mezes

Vietnamese mezes typically include a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, proteins, and unique sauces. Popular choices are spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), crispy pancakes (bánh xèo), and various dipping sauces like hoisin and nuoc cham. These dishes often feature contrasting textures and flavors, including sweet, savory, salty, and sour notes.

White Wines: A Versatile Companion

White wines are generally a fantastic match for Vietnamese mezes. Their crispness and acidity complement the freshness of the ingredients.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc, with its zesty acidity and citrus profile, pairs wonderfully with fresh spring rolls. The crispness of the wine balances the sweetness of the shrimp and the herbal elements in the dish.

A slightly off-dry Riesling can enhance the flavors of bánh xèo, the crispy pancakes filled with pork and shrimp. The sweetness in the wine counteracts the savory elements, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.

Red Wines: With Caution

While red wines can be more challenging to pair with Vietnamese mezes due to their intensity, certain red wines can complement specific dishes beautifully.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir’s light body and soft tannins make it a great match for grilled meats often found in Vietnamese cuisine. It works well with marinated beef skewers, enhancing the flavors of the marinade without overpowering the dish.

Gamay

A fruit-forward Gamay can also pair with more savory mezes, particularly those with heavier dips. Its bright acidity and juicy red fruit notes can balance the richness of dishes like fried tofu or egg rolls.

Rosé Wines: The Perfect Bridge

Rosé wines serve as a perfect bridge between red and white wines, making them suitable for a range of Vietnamese mezes.

Dry Rosé

A dry rosé complements various mezes, from fresh salads to savory pancakes. The wine’s crisp acidity and fruity notes balance the complex flavors and textures found in dishes like bánh xèo.

Sparkling Rosé

Sparkling rosé is another versatile option, especially for festive occasions. Its effervescence pairs well with the crunch of fried items and enhances the overall taste of light, fresh dishes like shrimp spring rolls.

Sweet Wines: For a Unique Twist

Consider sweet wines as a unique pairing for specific mezes. Their sweetness can complement the spiciness often found in Vietnamese sauces.

Moscato

Moscato’s light body and sweet profile work harmoniously with spicy dishes and rich dipping sauces. It pairs exceptionally well with fried spring rolls, adding a refreshing counterbalance to the spices.

Late Harvest Wines

Late harvest wines offer a luscious sweetness that enhances the flavors of savory and salty dishes. These wines can be paired with grilled meats and rich sauces to create an interesting flavor contrast.

Final Tips for Pairing

When pairing Vietnamese mezes with wine, consider the overall flavor profile of the dishes. Focus on balancing acidity, sweetness, and richness. Serve the wine chilled, particularly whites and rosés, to enhance the refreshing experience. Lastly, don't hesitate to experiment and discover your personal favorites. The vibrant ingredients of Vietnamese mezes provide a fantastic canvas for a variety of wine pairings.

Whether hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, the right wine can enhance your appreciation of Vietnamese cuisine's rich and diverse flavors.