Red meat is often paired with a strong, warm red wine, like a Merlot. So if you like your burger au natural, the merlot is for you. However, the more condiments you add, the more interesting the wine selection gets. If you like your burger smothered in ketchup, you may enjoy a nice Shiraz. If you love a tangy, unique cheese like a crumbled Bleu Cheese, you'd probably enjoy a glass of White Zinfandel. Inspect your condiments before choosing which wine is best.
Let's get real. Summertime in Chicago is all about the hot dogs. And any Chicagoan knows that it's not a hot dog without the proper condiments. That’s right…NO ketchup! For a proper Chicago-style dog, a sweet Riesling is the best option to match the peppers, relish, onions and mustard! Oh, and don't forget the poppy seed bun!
Though fried chicken isn't served fresh off the grill, it too has a perfect wine match! This picnic favorite is best served with a chilled white wine, with a full body. Semillon is a soft, subtle wine which is often blended with other flavors of white wines to create a richer experience for the drinker. This fullness yet softness make it a perfect match for the often heavy fried chicken.
