Thu, May 21 · 5:30 PM MST
The best wines to pair with hot dogs cut through the meat's high fat and sodium content. Reach for crisp, chilled whites (like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc) or refreshing, bubbly wines (like dry Rosé, Champagne, or Lambrusco) . The right choice depends on your favorite toppings:
Classic (Ketchup, Mustard & Relish): Pair with a dry, fruit-forward Rosé or a light, chilled Pinot Noir .Chicago-Style (Pickles, Peppers, Celery Salt): Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a tangy, dry Riesling . The wine’s acidity will match the briny, tangy toppings perfectly.New York-Style (Sauerkraut & Deli Mustard): Go with a spicy Gewürztraminer or rich Pinot Gris . These aromatic whites stand up to the strong sour and spicy notes of the toppings.Chili-Cheese Dog: Opt for a bold, fruit-forward red like a Syrah or Zinfandel . The tannins and spice balance the rich, heavy melted cheese and chili.Deep-Fried "Ripper" or Corn Dog: Sparkling wines like Prosecco or Cava are the ultimate match. The active bubbles and high citric zip cut through the heavy grease and batter
The best wine for bratwurst balances the sausage's rich, fatty pork and the sharp, acidic bite of toppings like mustard and sauerkraut. The top pairings include crisp, high-acid whites (like Riesling or Grüner Veltliner) and light-to-medium-bodied reds (like Pinot Noir or Grenache).
Top White Wine Pairings
Riesling: The undisputed classic. A dry to off-dry Riesling (like a German Kabinett) provides sweet fruit and high acidity that perfectly counters the spice of the sausage and the sourness of the kraut.Grüner Veltliner: This crisp Austrian white features citrus, mineral, and white pepper notes that match the brightness of your favorite mustards.Gewürztraminer: Aromatic and slightly spicy, this wine has the body to hold up to rich, pan-fried bratwurst without clashing with the flavors.
Top Red Wine Pairings
Pinot Noir: A light, earthy Pinot Noir brings bright acidity and low tannins, allowing it to elevate the savory meat without fighting the condiments.Grenache: A fruit-forward, medium-bodied Grenache pairs wonderfully with smoky, grilled bratwurst, adding notes of red berries and baking spice.Lambrusco: A chilled, off-dry sparkling red that acts very similarly to a beer, with bubbles and acidity that cut right through the richness of the brat.
Sparkling Pairings
Cava or Crémant: High-quality sparkling wines bring bright acidity and palate-cleansing bubbles. The carbonation acts like a crisp pilsner to reset your palate between bites.
We have a choice of videos to watch including:
https://youtu.be/GAvi8AKJMJQ?si=EJ0hRdGmbf-WFuQd - Wine Craft: 6 Major League Hot Dog and Wine Pairings - Mariolunasomm (4:46)
https://youtu.be/-zFJCAaYf_I?si=lM0QgYV3iu5gzFYm - What Wines Pair with a Hot Dog? - Wine Library TV (14:02)
https://youtu.be/r5UanO4OwpY?si=pfntjz3UWdSHkX3r - Wine Chat TV: Haute Dogs - Wine Sisterhood (3:34)
So, pick up a bottle and watch a couple of videos. Let us know what you’re drinking and eating, and, if possible, the region from which your wine comes. Do you have any comments (positive or negative) about the videos? And, as always, tell us what’s going on in your life - what's happening with you, how you're feeling about things, updates, successes, challenges - as much or as little as you’re willing to disclose. We are in this together. And - thank goodness - we have wine!
Cheers!!
