How to Pair Wine with Your Favorite Comfort Foods

Comfort foods are the dishes we turn to for warmth, nostalgia, and pure satisfaction. While most people enjoy these meals with a cold beer or soda, pairing them with the right wine can elevate the flavors to new heights. Whether you're indulging in mac and cheese, pizza, or fried chicken, here’s how to pair your favorite comfort foods with wine for a perfect dining experience.

1. Mac and Cheese + Chardonnay

Mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness. To complement the dish’s buttery texture and mild flavor, a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay is a perfect match.

Why it Works: The creamy, buttery notes of a well-oaked Chardonnay mirror the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a seamless pairing. The acidity in the wine also cuts through the heaviness, making each bite feel lighter and more balanced.
Try This: Opt for a California Chardonnay with a buttery finish, or try a lightly oaked French Chardonnay for a more subtle pairing.

2. Pizza + Sangiovese

Pizza is a universally loved comfort food with endless topping options. For a classic tomato-based pizza with mozzarella, a medium-bodied red like Sangiovese is a perfect match.

Why it Works: Sangiovese, especially from Italy’s Chianti region, has high acidity that complements the acidity in tomato sauce. Its light tannins work well with the mozzarella, while the wine’s herbal and cherry notes add depth to the dish.
Try This: Chianti Classico or any Sangiovese blend will enhance the flavors of a classic Margherita pizza or any pie with a tomato sauce base.

3. Fried Chicken + Champagne

Crispy, golden fried chicken is a comfort food favorite, and pairing it with Champagne (or any sparkling wine) might seem unconventional, but it’s a match made in heaven.

Why it Works: The bubbles in Champagne cut through the fat and grease of the fried chicken, while the wine’s crisp acidity balances out the richness. Additionally, Champagne’s yeasty, toasty flavors harmonize with the chicken’s crunchy coating.
Try This: Go for a Brut Champagne or a sparkling wine like Prosecco or Cava if you want a more affordable option. The bubbles will keep the meal light and refreshing.

4. Burgers + Cabernet Sauvignon

A juicy, flavorful burger deserves a wine that can stand up to its bold flavors. Enter Cabernet Sauvignon, the ideal pairing for a classic beef burger, especially when topped with cheese and other rich ingredients.

Why it Works: Cabernet Sauvignon’s high tannins, dark fruit flavors, and full body complement the savory, smoky notes of a beef patty. The tannins cut through the fat of the meat, while the rich berry flavors elevate the overall taste.
Try This: A bold Napa Valley Cabernet or a fruit-forward Australian Cabernet will do wonders with your burger, especially one with cheddar, bacon, or barbecue sauce.

5. Grilled Cheese + Sauvignon Blanc

Grilled cheese is the ultimate simple comfort food, and pairing it with a crisp, vibrant Sauvignon Blanc enhances the richness of the melted cheese while adding a refreshing contrast.

Why it Works: The zesty acidity of Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the buttery bread and gooey cheese, while the wine’s citrus and herbal notes add a burst of freshness. This combination creates a balanced contrast between the rich sandwich and the bright wine.
Try This: A New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with bold citrus flavors or a Sancerre from France will elevate a classic grilled cheese or even fancier versions with gourmet cheeses.

6. Spaghetti and Meatballs + Zinfandel

Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic, hearty comfort food that pairs beautifully with a fruit-forward, spicy Zinfandel.

Why it Works: Zinfandel’s bold fruit flavors, spice, and medium tannins complement the richness of the meatballs and the acidity of the tomato sauce. The slight sweetness of Zinfandel also balances the savory notes of the dish.
Try This: Look for a Californian Zinfandel, which tends to have ripe fruit flavors and a hint of spice, perfect for a comforting plate of spaghetti and meatballs.

7. Shepherd’s Pie + Syrah/Shiraz

A warm, hearty shepherd’s pie, with its layers of savory meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, pairs wonderfully with the bold, robust flavors of Syrah (or Shiraz, depending on where it’s from).

Why it Works: Syrah’s dark fruit, smoky notes, and peppery spice match the hearty flavors of shepherd’s pie, particularly the rich meat filling. The wine’s tannins and structure balance the creamy mashed potatoes and gravy.
Try This: A Syrah from France’s Rhône Valley offers more earthy, smoky flavors, while an Australian Shiraz will give you bold fruit and pepper notes.

8. Chocolate Chip Cookies + Port

For a sweet comfort food like chocolate chip cookies, a glass of Port is a perfect way to end the meal. The rich, sweet flavors of Port pair beautifully with chocolate, creating a decadent experience.

Why it Works: The sweetness of the wine enhances the chocolate chips, while the wine’s depth and richness complement the buttery dough. Tawny Port, with its nutty and caramel notes, works especially well with freshly baked cookies.
Try This: A rich Tawny Port will be the ideal partner for warm chocolate chip cookies, making dessert feel even more indulgent.

Final Thoughts

Pairing wine with your favorite comfort foods can turn a simple meal into a luxurious dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying mac and cheese, pizza, or fried chicken, the right wine can enhance the flavors, making every bite even more satisfying. Experiment with these pairings, and you’ll discover new ways to enjoy your go-to comfort dishes. Cheers!