As Mexican cuisine enjoys a current boom in every major European city, stepping into this vibrant and flavorful mosaic feels like embarking on a culinary journey. It all began with native ingredients like maize, beans, and tomatoes. Over time, Mexican cuisine warmly embraced European influences with open arms, including meats and cheeses. And, of course, we can't overlook the chilies—each one boasting its unique taste, shape, and aroma, adding that special kick to Mexican dishes. Since 2010, traditional mexican gastronomy is also a Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity declared by UNESCO.
It’s common that beer, a fresh margarita or even the well-known distillates like Mezcal or Tequila are the go-to beverages for Mexican food, but pairing Mexican wine with this cuisine is like a culinary art, creating a delightful experience where delicate flavors are not undercut but rather enhanced.
But where does Mexican wine come from?
Let's dive into the heart of Mexico, where winemaking traditions date back to the 16th century. Recent decades have seen Mexican winemaking blossom, emphasizing quality and innovation. If you want to know more about the story and development of the Mexican wine industry check our article on this.
Today, Mexican wine has taken the wine world by surprise. Mexico boasts a select group of exceptional winemakers who craft wines that authentically reflect their unique terroirs, and we can't wait to introduce you to this delightful discovery in the heart of Europe. Articles like Mexican Wines on Your Menu? Yes, Now is the Time by Ed Avis, reveal why Mexican wine is all the rage. Distributors, restaurateurs, and wine enthusiasts alike have come to realize that Mexican wine isn't just another player; it's ready to shine on the global wine stage, side by side with the best.
Top Mexican Dishes and Wine Pairings
We put together insights from both seasoned experts and enthusiasts that can serve as a helpful guide to get you started on your Mexican wine pairing journey.
The first dish is an icon of the celebration of Mexican Independence Day:
Chile en Nogada and Pet Nat.
During our trip to Mexico City last September, we went to the legendary restaurant Nicos by chef Gerardo Vázquez to taste this iconic dish. As recommended by our good friend Abel, the director of Vinaltura, we accompanied it with the Ancestral sparkling wine. This Gewürztraminer crafted with a traditional sparkling wine method or Pet Nat, has a pleasant minerality and is clean on the palate. In principle, the execution of the chile en nogada in this famous restaurant is precise, delicious and served in abundance. For its part, the pairing was exquisite and ideal for such a creamy and full of flavor dish.
Continuing with a beloved Mexican dish:
Sopa de Tortilla and Orange Wine.
This pairing is definitely an experience that harmonizes tradition and innovation. This delightful orange wine from RGMX, crafted from Riesling and Palomino vines, reflects its rich heritage as you savor the first aromatic notes, hints of citrus, like orange and lemon peel, greet your senses. The magic truly unfolds as
you take a spoonful of this delicious broth seasoned with tomato and pasilla pepper.
You'll notice how the wine's milky nuance seamlessly melds with the tomato-based broth, enhancing its depth and richness. The wine's citrus notes provide a delightful contrast to the soup's flavors, creating a delightful interplay of taste and aroma. As you relish the tortilla strips, avocado, and crumbly cheese topping the soup, you'll find that they accentuate the wine's citrusy and milky qualities, elevating the entire dining experience. This pairing captures the essence of Mexican culinary tradition leaving a lasting impression.
Now, let’s talk about Mexican cuisine in Europe!
If you're a Mexican Expat residing in France, particularly in Lyon, chances are you're familiar with the exceptional restaurant by chef Carla Kirsch and Vincent Gerbelli: Alebrije. This Michelin Guide "Bib Gourmand" awarded establishment boasts a Franco-Mexican gourmet menu, showcasing top-notch seasonal ingredients. Naturally, we reached out to them for their recommendations on exquisite pairings!
Pipián Verde de Verduras and bold white wine blend.
Pipián Verde or pumpkin seed green mole is a classic Central Mexico recipe that includes ingredients with indigenous roots. The acidity of tomatillo sauce combined with the rather earthy-nutty pumpkin seeds combines beautifully with the aromatic intensity and tropical fruits of this white wine blend. Terruño Blanco features an unparalleled cuveé including Riesling, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewürztraminer grapes. The fresh and fruity attack on the palate is the perfect pair for this green chili and herbs-based sauce which is mainly served with chicken as a main dish, but is also a beautiful and rich sauce to be served with vegetables.
Mole Encacahuatado and Malbec.
Peanut mole is a dish derived from the Aztec empire and because of its popularity it is served in many states in Mexico. However, it is a very common dish in the state of Veracruz, where the chef Carla is from.
Encacahuatado features dried chilies, sesame seeds, tomatoes, and of course, peanuts. The sauce has a creamy consistency with just the right touch of spice, which pairs delightfully with the freshness and fruit-forward character of this Malbec. San Juanito Amanecer is young and fresh red wine that showcases its acidity and pristine raspberry flavors. Without oak influence and a silky, medium-bodied texture, it is the perfect match to this traditional Mexican food. This Mexican Mole can also be accompanied with vegetables, cactus, mushrooms or potatoes to make a vegetarian or vegan version of it. However, Vincent from Restaurant Alebrije, recommends serving it with beef - his version combines perfectly with the malbec’s lively acidity and smooth tannins.
Tacos al pastor and Viognier or Rosé Sparkling wine.
As we bid farewell to the luscious Mexican flavors in France, we venture into the vibrant world of Mexican street food with Miguel Zaldivar, the culinary wizard of Hamburg. Picture slices of marinated pork, expertly grilled and nestled in warm, handmade tortillas, adorned with a colorful array of toppings that promise to tantalize your taste buds. Yes, we're talking about none other than his iconic Tacos al Pastor, a true embodiment of culinary artistry and innovation.
And what better accompaniment for these mouthwatering tacos than Pozo de Luna Viognier? With its oily texture, subtle mineral notes, and medium acidity, this white wine serves as the perfect foil to the bold flavors of the Tacos al Pastor.
If you're a fan of bubbles, the Espuma Bajío Rosé from Vinaltura presents another delightful option for this traditional Mexico City dish. Whether you opt for a taco with a fiery kick or prefer to keep it mild, the freshness of this sparkling rosé enhances the experience. With each sip, the effervescence dances on your palate, elevating every bite to a culinary symphony of taste sensations.
Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to Carne Asada.
As we eagerly welcome the blossoming beauty of spring in Europe with longer days and warmer weather, there's an undeniable allure to firing up the grill and savoring the delights of al fresco dining. It is common to think of white and sparkling wines as the go-to during this time of year, however there's something inherently comforting about pairing the grilled dishes with the rich, fruity notes of Monte Xanic’s Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot from Baja California.
This exceptional red wine, with its velvety tannins, perfect balance, and array of fruity aromas, offers a delightful counterpoint to the smoky flavors common in this season. Picture a vibrant grilling day in the garden, infused with Mexican flair! Indulge in your favorite cut of meat, expertly grilled to tender perfection or for a vegan option roasted cauliflower marinated to perfection. Accompanied by charred scallions or green onions, tender cactus strips, and regional asparagus, all wrapped in warm tortillas and garnished with zesty lemon drops and vibrant pico de gallo salsa. Each bite becomes a symphony of flavors, harmoniously complemented by the wine's robust structure and flavorful complexity.
Ultimately, there are no strict rules when it comes to pairing, and the perfect flavors are a matter of personal preference. The key is to be adventurous, explore, experiment, and discover your ideal combinations. And, although traditional dishes are the main ones that should be accompanied by
Mexican wine, a wide variety of European flavors, combine perfectly with these special Mexican labels.
Cheers to delightful discoveries!
Recommended wines: uvasdemexico.de/shop
- Vinaltura Ancestral Gewürztraminer
- RGMX Naranja
- Terruño Blanco
- San Juanito Amanecer
- Pozo de Luna Viognier
- Espuma Bajío Rosé
- Monte Xanic Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
