Wine Pairing with Savory Pies
Savory pies hold a special place in culinary traditions around the world, from the classic British pork pie to French quiches and Greek spanakopita. Each pie variety boasts unique flavours and textures, making them fantastic candidates for thoughtful wine pairings. In this guide, we will explore the qualities of various savoury pies and suggest wines that enhance their deliciousness.
Understanding Savory Pies
Savory pies can be rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying, often featuring a range of ingredients such as meats, vegetables, cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Their crusts, whether flaky and buttery or dense and earthy, contribute to their overall character. Here’s a closer look at common types of savoury pies:
Popular Varieties of Savory Pies
- Pork Pie: A classic British dish made with seasoned ground pork and encased in a firm crust.
- Quiche: A French tart filled with eggs, cream, cheese, and various fillings like spinach or bacon.
- Spanakopita: A Greek pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, wrapped in crispy phyllo dough.
- Potato Pie: A comforting pie often found in various cuisines, typically featuring mashed potatoes and additional fillings such as cheese or vegetables.
- Chicken Pot Pie: A hearty dish combining chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all enclosed in a pastry crust.
Wine Pairing Guidelines for Savory Pies
Pairing wine with savoury pies can greatly enhance the dining experience. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Consider the Filling
The primary filling of your pie largely dictates the best wine pairing. For example, rich meat fillings typically pair well with red wines, while lighter vegetable-based pies may call for white or rosé wines.
2. Match the Crust
The type of crust influences texture and flavour. Buttery, flaky crusts tend to harmonise with bright, acidic wines, while denser crusts may complement fuller-bodied wines.
3. Embrace Seasonings and Accompaniments
Pies often feature herbs and spices that can enhance your wine choice. The presence of herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can shift your pairing towards aromatic whites or light reds.
Recommended Wine Pairings by Pie Type
Pork Pie
Wine Pairing: A light, fruity red such as a Pinot Noir or a sparkling wine like English Sparkling enhances the flavours of the pork while cutting through the richness of the pie.
Quiche
Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Chardonnay works wonderfully with quiche, especially if it contains greens or strong cheese. The wine’s acidity balances the creamy filling.
Spanakopita
Wine Pairing: Opt for a dry Assyrtiko from Greece or a light, herbal Grüner Veltliner. Both wines accentuate the herbs in the filling and complement the salty feta.
Potato Pie
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied Chenin Blanc or an earthy Merlot pairs nicely with potato pies. The texture of the wine enhances the creamy potato while the fruitiness adds depth.
Chicken Pot Pie
Wine Pairing: A rich Chardonnay with buttery notes complements the creamy filling, while a Viognier can add aromatic complexity, pairing well with any herbs in the dish.
Advanced Pairing Considerations
Explore Regional Wines
When enjoying a traditional dish, consider pairing it with wines from the same region. This can enhance the authenticity of your meal. For example, a classic British pie served with English Riesling or a French quiche with a local Burgundy can create a delightful harmony.
Try Different Styles
Explore various styles of wines within the same varietal. A lightly oaked Chardonnay may pair differently than a heavily oaked one, offering different levels of creaminess that can complement or contrast your pie’s filling.
Serving Suggestions and Temperature
- Temperature Matters: Serve white wines chilled (about 8-10°C) and red wines at a cooler room temperature (about 14-16°C) to enhance their flavours.
- Glassware: Choose appropriate wine glasses to showcase the wine’s qualities - tulip-shaped glasses for whites and wider-bowled glasses for reds.
- Accompaniments: Consider a side salad or dipping sauces that align with your pie choice, as these can further influence your wine selection.
Conclusion
Savoury pies provide ample opportunity for delightful wine pairings that elevate your dining experience. By understanding the ingredients and characteristics of each pie type, you can thoughtfully select wines that enhance flavours and textures. Whether enjoying a traditional pork pie with sparkling wine or a creamy chicken pot pie with a rich Chardonnay, there is a perfect wine waiting to complement every delicious bite. Enjoy exploring the exquisite world of savoury pies and their wine pairings!