Wondering which wine pairs best with salmon? Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, we’ve got you covered with these amazing salmon wine pairings.
Is Red or White Wine Better with Salmon?
The answer is simple – both! The choice depends on your personal preferences and how your salmon is prepared. Grilled salmon goes well with a Pinot Noir or other low-tannin red wines. For a buttery sous vide salmon, a bright and acidic Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect match. Baked salmon with a buttery sauce, such as lemon butter, pairs beautifully with a rich Chardonnay.
Our 8 Favorite Salmon Wine Pairings
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Rosé Wine
- Pinot Noir
- Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio
- Chenin Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Sparkling Wines
- Dry Riesling
Sauvignon Blanc
This bright and crisp green wine pairs perfectly with salmon, especially when prepared with fresh herbs. Try it with a salmon steak and chimichurri sauce for a delightful combination.
Dry Rosé
A fun and flirty wine, Rosé is perfect for those casual patio moments. Its fruity aromas of strawberry, watermelon, and citrus, along with its good acidity, make it an excellent match for grilled salmon dishes like brown sugar cedar plank salmon fillets or salmon burgers.
Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is always a fantastic choice when it comes to seafood pairings. It’s especially delightful when enjoyed with citrus sauces, such as a salmon fillet with lemon butter.
Pinot Noir
One of the most versatile red wines, Pinot Noir is an excellent match for seafood. Its delicate flavors won’t overpower your meal. For grilled salmon with BBQ sauce, the earthy and smoky qualities of Pinot Noir create a delicious harmony.
Chardonnay
When your salmon dish is accompanied by a buttery or creamy sauce, like beurre blanc, a full-bodied and oak-aged Chardonnay is the way to go. Its rich flavors complement the dish perfectly.
Sparkling Wines
Looking for something different? Sparkling wines are fantastic when paired with sushi. Go for affordable options like cava or prosecco. They’re perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any casual gathering. Try a glass with these Spicy Salmon Sushi Bowls.
Chenin Blanc
With its citrus notes, Chenin Blanc is a match made in heaven for Asian-style salmon dishes. Give it a try with salmon and ginger butter sauce.
Dry Riesling
If you’re serving spicy salmon dishes like Thai Salmon Curry or Sriracha Glazed Salmon, a Dry Riesling is your best bet. It helps tame down the heat and enhances the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What wine goes well with grilled salmon?
The ideal wine to pair with grilled salmon is Pinot Noir. Its earthy, spicy qualities and bright acidity make it a heavenly match for grilled fish.
What red wine pairs well with salmon?
Look for a lighter-bodied red wine to pair with salmon. Pinot Noir is an excellent choice, especially Oregon Pinot Noir, which has a spicy characteristic that pairs wonderfully with grilled salmon slathered in BBQ sauce or cedar plank salmon. Beaujolais and Gamay are also red wines that pair well with salmon.
What wine goes with salmon in a cream sauce?
When your salmon is accompanied by a creamy sauce, an oaky and full-bodied Chardonnay is the perfect choice. Its rich flavors beautifully complement cream-based and buttery sauces.
What is traditionally served with salmon?
Aside from salmon itself, popular accompaniments include asparagus, an arugula salad, or a fennel and celery salad. Looking for more sides and sauces? Check out our delicious side dish ideas for salmon and explore our selection of salmon sauces. And, of course, don’t forget the wine!
Please note that these wine pairing suggestions are just recommendations. There is no “right wine” – enjoy what you like best! Feel free to pair your salmon dinner with a Cabernet Sauvignon if that’s what you prefer. The best way to find your perfect pairing is through tasting and experimentation.
Did you try any of these salmon wine pairings?
We’d love to hear your feedback! If you gave any of these pairings a try, share your thoughts and snap a picture of your creation on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us @Hook’d Up Bar and Grill and use the hashtag #Hook’dUpPairings.
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More Wine Pairing Advice:
- Wine Pairings for Pasta
- Wine Pairings for Steak
- Wine Pairings for Pork
- Wine Pairings for BBQ
- Wine Pairings for Sushi
Looking for more amazing salmon recipes? We’ve got you covered.
Note: These wine pairings also work well with trout. Learn about the differences between trout and salmon here.