Tacos and wine? How refined!
The art of pairing on Taco Day
"Oenological" considerations on World Taco Day
My late mother used to complain about Mother's Day because she detested crowded restaurants. She would say: "Every day of the year is Mother's Day!" The same logic applies to our gastronomy: the Google doodle will remind us that March 31st is World Taco Day, but for every Mexican, every day is Taco Day!
If you want to elevate this tradition, the answer is in the glass. What do tacos have to do with wine? Everything. It's the union between intense proteins and the fermented complexity of the grape.
Pairing Guide: Wines and Mexican Tacos
The key to pairing tacos is to balance the fat of the protein and the spice of the salsa with the acidity and body of the wine. Here are our stellar recommendations:
1. Carnitas Tacos + Syrah
The flavor concentration and texture of carnitas require a wine whose acidity tempers the fat. We suggest a wine with a spicy character.
Recommendation: Syrah from Château Fakra (Lebanon). Its notes of pepper and good acidity cut through the richness of the pork.BUY SYRAH WINE
2. Barbacoa Tacos + Red Blend (Cabernet/Syrah)
Barbacoa is a rustic and unctuous protein. You need a "silky" wine that tames the potency of the lamb.
Recommendation: 689 Napa Valley Red Blend. Cabernet and Syrah enhance the meat, while Zinfandel balances the spiciness of a "drunk" salsa.BUY NAPA VALLEY RED BLEND
3. Cochinita Pibil Tacos + Full-Bodied Chardonnay
This carnival of spices and achiote calls for fruity freshness to round out the condiments and pork.
Recommendation: Submission Chardonnay. Its notes of pineapple and mango harmonize with the tropical profile of cochinita.BUY SUBMISSION CHARDONNAY
4. Tacos al Pastor + Mexican Rosé Wine
The quintessential Mexico City taco finds its soulmate in a vibrant rosé that highlights the pineapple and marinade.
Recommendation: Balero Rosé (Valle de Guadalupe). A blend of Cabernet and Grenache that refreshes the palate after each bite of marinade.BUY BALERO ROSÉ
Frequently Asked Questions about Tacos and Wines
When is World Taco Day celebrated?
Although it is a daily tradition in Mexico, World Taco Day has been officially celebrated on March 31st since 2007.
Is it possible to pair wine with very spicy sauces?
It's possible and delicious! The key is to avoid wines with too many tannins (which become bitter with spice) and opt for rosé wines, fruity white wines, or young red wines with good acidity that refresh the mouth.
What is the best wine for greasy tacos?
Wines with high acidity are recommended. Acidity acts as a "cleanser" on the palate, cutting through the greasy sensation of proteins like suadero or carnitas.
Red or white wine for tacos al pastor?
Rosé wine is the ideal middle ground. It combines enough structure for the pork with the necessary freshness to pair with pineapple and cilantro.
