Spicy wines are a growing trend in the world of wine. With consumers seeking out bold and complex flavors, spicy wines are gaining popularity for their unique taste and versatility in pairing with food. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of wine, there’s a spicy wine out there for everyone.
What Makes a Wine Spicy?
When we talk about spicy wines, we’re not referring to the actual taste of spice. Instead, spicy wines are defined by their peppery and herbal notes, which are often accompanied by hints of black pepper, cinnamon, clove, and other spices.
These spicy flavors can be the result of several factors, including the grape variety, winemaking techniques, and the influence of oak barrels. For example, some grape varieties, such as Syrah and Petite Sirah, naturally produce wines with peppery notes. Meanwhile, winemakers can add complexity to their wines by using techniques like extended maceration or aging in oak barrels, which can impart spicy flavors and aromas.
Types of Spicy Wine
There are many different types of spicy wines, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are a few examples:
Syrah/Shiraz: Syrah/Shiraz is a popular grape variety known for producing spicy wines with flavors of black pepper, clove, and cinnamon. These wines can be full-bodied and rich, with a long finish that lingers on the palate.
Zinfandel: Zinfandel is another grape variety that can produce spicy wines, although the spice notes are often accompanied by fruit-forward flavors like raspberry and blackberry. These wines are often high in alcohol and have a bold, jammy character.
Grenache: Grenache is a grape variety commonly used in blends, but it can also produce spicy wines on its own. These wines often have flavors of black pepper, cinnamon, and allspice, with a medium body and a smooth finish.
Petite Sirah: Petite Sirah is a grape variety that is often blended with other grapes, but can also be used to produce spicy wines on its own. These wines are full-bodied and tannic, with flavors of black pepper and clove.
Malbec: Malbec is a grape variety that originated in France but is now commonly grown in Argentina. Malbec wines often have flavors of black pepper, clove, and other spices, with a rich, full-bodied character.
Pairing Spicy Wine with Food
Spicy wines can be incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing with food. Here are a few pairing suggestions to help you get started:
Spicy Asian cuisine: If you’re serving up a spicy Thai curry or a fiery Szechuan stir-fry, try pairing it with a spicy Syrah or Zinfandel. The bold flavors and spice notes in these wines can stand up to the heat of the food.
Grilled meats: Grilled meats like steak or lamb pair well with spicy Grenache or Malbec wines. The peppery and herbal notes in these wines complement the smoky flavors of the meat.
Hard cheeses: If you’re serving a cheese plate, try pairing it with a full-bodied Petite Sirah or Zinfandel. These wines have enough tannin and acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Chocolate desserts: Spicy wines can also pair well with chocolate desserts. Try a bold Zinfandel or Syrah/Shiraz with a rich chocolate cake or flourless chocolate torte.
One of the great things about spicy wines is their versatility. They can be enjoyed on their own, with a meal, or as part of a wine pairing. In addition to the food pairings mentioned earlier, spicy wines can also be paired with bold, flavorful dishes like barbecue, spicy wings, and chili. The heat and spice of the food can actually enhance the flavors of the wine, making for a truly memorable dining experience.
Serving Spicy Wines
When it comes to serving and storing spicy wines, it’s important to pay attention to the temperature. Spicy red wines like Syrah and Zinfandel should be served at room temperature, while lighter, spicy whites like Gewürztraminer and Riesling should be served slightly chilled. Spicy wines should also be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and fluctuations in temperature.
If you’re new to spicy wines, it’s a good idea to start with a lighter wine like a Gewürztraminer or Pinot Noir with subtle spice notes before moving on to bolder wines like Zinfandel or Syrah/Shiraz. Many wineries also offer tastings or wine flights, which can be a great way to sample a variety of spicy wines and find your favorites.
Final Thoughts
Spicy wines are a great way to add complexity and depth to your wine collection. They are a great choice for any wine lover looking to explore something new. Whether you’re a fan of Syrah/Shiraz, Zinfandel, Grenache, Petite Sirah, or Malbec, there’s a spicy wine out there for you to discover and enjoy. So why not add a few spicy wines to your collection and experience the complex and exciting flavors for yourself?
