Savoyard fondue is an essential part of any winter winter meals, combining conviviality and gourmet pleasure. But which wines should you choose to enhance this emblematic dish? Here are a few tips for a perfect match.
Savoie whites: the essential allies
A golden rule for successful food pairing: choose a wine that is wine from the same region as the dish. The Savoie is a wine-growing region that produces light, fruity white wines. Naturally, these wines are the perfect accompaniment to a Savoyard fondue, as they share the same terroir.
White wines from other regions
In Alsace: fresh and aromatic
Alsace is renowned for its white wines with a wide range of profiles, which go perfectly with melted cheese:
- Riesling: Dry, lively and mineral, it brings a nice acidity that balances the fat of the cheese.
- Pinot Gris: Fuller-bodied and slightly smoky, it is round and elegant on the palate.
- Gewurztraminer: With its floral and spicy notes, it can surprise in fondue, especially if you add a touch of nutmeg or garlic to the mix.
In Burgundy: finesse and minerality
Burgundy is another region to choose for a successful fondue pairing:
- Chablis: Its minerality and liveliness contrast with the creaminess of the cheese, bringing a lovely freshness to the palate.
- Bourgogne Aligoté: Simpler but very refreshing, it’s ideal for a light, unpretentious pairing.
In the Jura: the originality of Vin Jaune
If you’re looking for a more daring experience, Vin Jaune du Jura is a characterful choice. This wine, matured under veil for six and a half years, develops nutty, spicy aromas that are a perfect match for mountain cheeses, especially Comté. Its aromatic intensity and unique structure make it a prestigious match for a more gourmet fondue.
And red wine?
For red wine lovers, pairing melted cheese with red wine can be tricky. Tannins, often present in these wines, can create an unpleasant mouthfeel with fondue.
It is therefore preferable to choose light red wines with discreet tannins to preserve the balance of flavors.
Aside from Savoie wines, turn to Beaujolais, with appellations such as Brouilly or Juliénas, which go perfectly with fondue.
Any last words of advice?
Avoid wines that are too powerful or tannic, which could weigh down the meal. And for an authentic touch, serve your wine well chilled for perfect harmony with the fondue!
So, are you ready to feast? All you have to do is dip your piece of bread into the cheese… But be careful, if it falls, watch out for the pledge!
