What Wine goes with Shrimp Scampi

When it comes to seafood dishes, shrimp scampi is a classic. The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs well with a variety of wines. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which wine is the best choice for shrimp scampi.

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Fortunately, I know of several types of wines that complement the flavors of shrimp scampi well. White wines tend to be the most popular choice, as their acidity and citrus notes help to balance out the buttery richness of the dish. However, there are also some red wines that can work well. Ultimately, the best wine for shrimp scampi will depend on personal preference and the specific flavors of the dish.

Best White Wines to Pair with Shrimp Scampi

White wines are a popular choice for pairing with shrimp scampi. Some of the best white wines for shrimp scampi include:

glasses of white wine
  • Sauvignon Blanc: This wine has a refreshing acidity that pairs well with the buttery flavors of shrimp scampi.
  • Chardonnay: A full-bodied wine with a creamy texture that balances out the buttery flavors in shrimp scampi.
  • Pinot Grigio: A light-bodied wine with crisp acidity that complements the flavors of the dish.
  • Dry Riesling: A dry Riesling has a refreshing acidity that pairs well with the buttery flavors of shrimp scampi.

The best dry white wine for shrimp scampi would be Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or unoaked Chardonnay.

Best Red Wines to pair with Shrimp Scampi

While white wines are the traditional choice for pairing with shrimp scampi, some red wines can also work well. Here are some red wines that pair well with shrimp scampi:

glasses of red wine
  • Pinot Noir: A light-bodied red wine that pairs well with the delicate flavors of shrimp scampi.
  • Beaujolais: This French wine has a light body and refreshing acidity that complements the flavors of the dish.
  • Gamay: Known for its bright, fruity flavors and low tannins, Gamay can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of shrimp scampi. Look for a Beaujolais, which is made from the Gamay grape, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and violet.

Sparkling Wines with Shrimp Scampi

Sparkling wines are a great choice for pairing with shrimp scampi. Here are some sparkling wines that I found to pair well with the dish:

  • Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine has a crisp acidity that pairs well with the buttery flavors of shrimp scampi.

Determining what wine goes with Shrimp Scampi

The right wine should complement the flavors of the dish without overpowering them. When choosing a wine to pair with shrimp scampi, I consider the following factors:

  • Acidity: The wine should have moderate to refreshing acidity to balance the buttery flavors of the dish.
  • Character: The wine should have a moderate character that won’t overpower the flavors of the shrimp scampi.
  • Quality: Use a high-quality white wine to avoid the sauce being too buttery or caramelized.
  • Alcohol content: A low-alcohol content wine is ideal as it won’t overpower the dish.

Shrimp scampi is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or a dining experience. Choosing the right wine to pair with shrimp scampi can elevate the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience.

Grapes

Appetizers

When serving shrimp scampi as an appetizer, it is best to pair it with a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines have a zesty acidity that complements the garlic and butter sauce of shrimp scampi perfectly. A dry Riesling is also a great choice for this dish.

Main Course

For a weeknight dinner or a more formal dining experience, shrimp scampi pairs well with a variety of white wines. Chardonnay is an excellent choice for those who prefer a full-bodied wine, while Vinho Verde is a great option for those who prefer a lighter wine. Rosé and even Rioja can also be paired with shrimp scampi, adding a touch of sweetness and tannin levels that balance the dish’s flavors.

Desserts

When it comes to desserts, pairing wine with shrimp scampi can be a challenge. However, light-bodied white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can be paired with desserts that feature apple, pear, or grapefruit flavors. A dessert wine such as Moscato can also be paired with caramel-based desserts.

Cocktails

For those who prefer cocktails, ginger-based cocktails pair well with shrimp scampi. The spiciness of ginger adds a unique flavor that complements the garlic and butter sauce of shrimp scampi. A ginger martini or a ginger beer cocktail can be the perfect accompaniment to this dish.

Overall, the best wine for shrimp scampi depends on personal preference and the specific recipe being used. However, by following the guidelines above and experimenting with different wines, you can find the perfect pairing that will enhance the flavors of this classic dish.

What is Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp scampi is a classic seafood dish that is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. It is a dish that is typically made with shrimp, garlic, butter, and lemon, and can be served with pasta, zucchini noodles, or crusty bread. In this section, we will discuss the ingredients, preparation, and flavors of shrimp scampi.

The key ingredients in shrimp scampi are shrimp, garlic, butter, and lemon. Other ingredients can be added to the dish to enhance its flavors, such as linguine, risotto, asparagus, tomatoes, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes.

When it comes to shrimp, it is important to use high-quality, fresh shrimp. The garlic should be fresh and finely chopped, while the butter should be unsalted and of good quality. The lemon should be fresh and juicy and can be used to add a bright, citrusy note to the dish.

Ultimately, the best wine for shrimp scampi is one that balances the flavors of the dish and enhances the overall dining experience. By considering factors such as acidity, minerality, and region, you can find the perfect pairing for this classic seafood dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What Pinot Grigio is best for shrimp scampi?

    When it comes to pairing wine with shrimp scampi, Pinot Grigio is a great choice. Look for a Pinot Grigio that is light-bodied, crisp, and has a good acidity to balance the richness of the dish. Some good options include Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio, and Kris Pinot Grigio. Ultimately, the best Pinot Grigio for shrimp scampi will depend on your personal taste preferences.

  2. Does red wine go with shrimp scampi?

    While it is not typical to pair red wine with shrimp scampi, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Shrimp scampi is typically a light and delicate dish that pairs well with white wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. However, if you prefer red wine, you could try pairing it with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. Keep in mind that the lightness and acidity of the wine will be key in balancing the rich and buttery flavors of the shrimp scampi.

  3. What is a good wine to cook with shrimp?

    When it comes to cooking with shrimp, dry white wine is a great option to add flavor and depth to your dish. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay are all good choices for cooking with shrimp. These wines have a crisp acidity that can help to balance the sweetness of the shrimp, while also adding a subtle fruitiness to the dish. When selecting a wine for cooking, you don’t need to use an expensive bottle, as the heat of the cooking process will change the wine’s flavor. A good rule of thumb is to choose a wine that you would be happy to drink on its own.

  4. What wine is best for garlic shrimp?

    Some good options include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay.
    Sauvignon Blanc is a great pairing with garlic shrimp because it has high acidity and bright citrus flavors that complement the garlic and lemon used in the dish. Pinot Grigio is another good option, with its light and refreshing character that pairs well with the delicate flavors of the shrimp. Chardonnay can also work well, especially if the garlic shrimp is served with a creamy sauce, as the wine’s richness can complement the dish. Ultimately, the best wine for garlic shrimp will depend on your personal taste preferences.

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