Beer has long been considered the alcoholic beverage of choice when dining on English food and understandably so; they just go so well together. But over the years wine consumption has grown in popularity in England, and the region has even gained considerable recognition as a wine producer. While many still reach for a pint of lager or stout when dining, there has been increasing discussion on what wines pair best with English cuisine.
Best Red Wine With English Food
Rich, full-bodied reds complement many of the heartier foods in English cuisine. Especially dishes with gravy and red meat.
- Malbec: full-bodied, but low acidity with flavors of plum, blackberry and cocoa.
- Pinot Noir: always a popular choice; light on body, high on aromatics.
- Beaujolais: also known as Gamay, light, fruity and low tannins.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: full bodied and full of tannins.
Best White Wine With English Food
Whites that are light and crisp pair well with many English dishes.
- Riesling: Light, sweet, crisp, and highly acidic. Known for being food-friendly.
- Sauvignon Blanc: highly acidic, fruity, dry white with herb tones.
- Pinot Blanc: very light, and floral with notes of citrus and peach.
- Champagne: Bubbly, floral, and fruity with notes of citrus, peach, or cherry.
Pairing Wine With Various English Dishes
Bangers & Mash is a traditional dish from Great Britain and Ireland that consists of pork sausage, mashed potatoes, and smothered with brown gravy. This hearty meal is fantastic with wines that are dry and have medium acidity and tannins, which help complement the robust flavors. Choose a malbec or gamay to drink with this meal.
Pairing Wine With Sunday Roast
A full-bodied red is the perfect companion to this traditional dinner. Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah will pair nicely.
Pairing Wine With Black Pudding
A Malbec will complement this sausage nicely while a Riesling will provide a refreshing contrast.
You’ll want an acidic white to cut through the fat and oil in this fried meal. A Riesling is perfect or, if you like bubbles, choose a sparkling white.
Pairing Wine With Yorkshire Pudding
Pinot Noir is both earthy and fruity, which pairs nicely with the savory elements of this dish.
Pairing Wine With Toad in the Hole
A white or red would work well here. Try a Cabernet if you prefer red and Sauvignon Blanc if white is your preference.
Pairing Wine With Spotted Dick
This definitive English dessert needs a sweet Pinot Gris or buttery Chardonnay.
A medium-to-full-bodied red, like a Merlot or Tempranillo, will complement this classic comfort food.
Pairing Wine With Sausage Roll
Sauvignon Blanc offers a nice contract to this savory roll. A Malbec would also work well if you prefer red wine.
Pairing Wine With Steak and Kidney Pudding
A bold red like Bordeaux or Merlot will match the heartiness of this dish.
Pairing Wine With Apple Crumble
A sweet dessert wine like Sauternes works well with this popular British dessert.
