When food and wine combine to create a flavor greater than the sum of their parts, the French call it a “Mariage” (Marriage). Master these five rules to create outstanding pairs at home.

Rule 1: Match the Colors

The easiest starting point is color matching:

• White Ingredients (poultry, white fish, goat cheese) = White Wine
• Red Ingredients (steaks, tuna, rich stews) = Red Wine
• Pink Ingredients (salmon, shrimp, prosciutto) = Rosé Wine

Rule 2: Pair by Origin (Same Soil)

What grows together, goes together. Classic matches include pairing Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano with a Tuscan Chianti, or Loire Valley goat cheese with Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc.

Rule 3: Balance Weight and Intensity

Light bites (salads, crudo) need light-bodied wines. Heavy, fatty dishes (lamb roasts, stews) demand bold, high-tannin reds.

Rule 4: Match Acidity and Fat

High-fat dishes coating your palate need high-acid wines to cut through the grease and refresh the mouth.

Rule 5: Match the Sauce, Not Just the Protein

A roast chicken served with lemon and herbs pairs best with a crisp white, whereas the same chicken with a red wine reduction needs a medium red.