Which wines to drink with vegan dishes?

How to Pair Wine with Vegan Dishes?

On paper, this might not seem so simple, but in reality, it is. Here are some tips for pairing vegan cuisine with wine.

With Spinach Puffs: A Full-Bodied and Rich White Wine

The most well-known food and wine pairings often involve meat, fish, and cheese. However, a vegan diet excludes these three products. Fortunately, some dishes are hearty enough to stand on their own, such as spinach puffs (without cheese, of course). Often paired with cream, spinach becomes creamy and slightly tangy. To counterbalance this acidity, choose a white wine made from Chardonnay with a full-bodied structure. Opt for a dry white wine from Burgundy, such as Mâcon-Villages or Pouilly-Fuissé.

With Stuffed Zucchini with Vegetables: A Soft and Delicate Red Wine

Another dish that easily skips meat or cheese is stuffed zucchini with vegetables. This dish has a distinctly summery vibe, but nothing stops you from enjoying it in the middle of winter (though it's worth noting that the ingredients might be of lower quality during this season). In any case, this 100% vegan dish pairs beautifully with a red wine that has fruity aromas and delicate tannins. You have plenty of options: a red wine from Languedoc or the Southwest of France, or if you prefer lighter wines, a wine from the Loire Valley or Beaujolais. You could also consider a rosé wine from Provence.

FAQ - Wine and vegan food

Can you drink red wine with a vegan dish?

Yes, as long as you pick a red with soft tannins rather than a powerful one. A light, fruity wine from the Loire Valley or Beaujolais pairs well with stuffed or grilled vegetables without overpowering them.

What white wine works with a plant-based creamy dish?

Choose a dry white with enough body to stand up to a creamy plant-based sauce. A Burgundy Chardonnay, structured and lightly oaked, balances this kind of dish nicely.

Can wine itself fail to be vegan?

Yes, some clarifying agents used in winemaking come from animal sources, such as fish gelatin or egg albumin. A vegan wine is fined using plant-based or mineral agents instead, with no animal ingredients at all.

Does rosé wine suit a fully vegan meal?

It does, especially a Provence rosé, both crisp and fruity. It pairs easily with summer vegetable dishes, stuffed or roasted, without ever overpowering their flavors.

What temperature should wine be served at with vegan food?

Serve a dry white around 50 to 54°F to keep its freshness, while a light red is best slightly chilled, around 57 to 61°F, to bring out its fruity notes without heaviness.