Butter. Lots of butter. Lemon. Lots of lemon. A lobster’s top culinary companions usually are lots of melted butter and many twists of fresh lemon. Sometimes the palate appeal of a dish rests firmly in its delicious simplicity. So whether it is grilled or steamed lobster tail soaked in butter or a creamy lobster bisque, there is always one white wine variety that can handle the texture and tastes lobster in many recipes.
Top Pick Wine and Lobster Pairing
The number one wine to pair with lobster is hands-down Chardonnay. Consider the palate profile of most international Chardonnay wines whether they are from Burgundy or California, Chile or Australia – Chardonnay often highlights its own innate citrus nuances both in the aromatic components and in flavor. Many Chardonnays spend time in oak and also go through malolactic fermentation, both of which will bring rich buttery tones to the wine. In terms of body weight, Chardonnay often shows a creamy, fuller body.
Other Go-to White Wines for Lobster
While Chardonnay affords lobster a classic, go-to pairing. There are other white wines that will wow with their affinity for lobster-themed recipes. The spicy, intense aromatics of Gerwurztraminer play exceptionally well with broiled lobster. The straightforward, citrusy, just-say-summer simplicity of Pinot Grigio provides a food-friendly backdrop to lemon-laden lobster. The Loire Valley’s Viognier makes a remarkable match with lobster that’s seen a bit of curry or Asian spice – the slight sweet mouthfeel tames the heat of the spice and highlights the sweeter side of the lobster meat.
If you are looking for a savory lobster and wine pairing that is heavily influenced by cream or butter-based sauces and you’re looking to go beyond the classic styles of Chardonnay, then reach for the butter-busting bubbles of Champagne or a sparkling wine with solid, food-friendly acidity.
In general, the rich impressions that lobster brings both in terms of mouthfeel and culinary expectations demands a wine that can go the distance in food-pairing versatility and has the body weight and palate presence to bring out the best in a variety of lobster-inspired recipes – there is no better choice than Chardonnay.
By Stacy Slinkard, Wine Expert at About Food