It’s time for another installment of what we’re drinking here at couch + cork.

Winter Sparklers

This year we’re drinking sparkling RED wines. That’s right! We’ve emptied a whole lotta bottles of Lambrusco since it started getting dark earlier and the snow fell. There’s just something about this Italian gem that begs for comfort food, like chicken parm. It’s also great with burgers, and has a whole lot less sugar than Coke (and no artificial sweetener unlike Diet Coke).

Lambrusco ranges from bone dry to sweet and we recommend something in the middle to pair. This wine especially loves tomato-based dishes. Since “what grows together, goes together” you can reach for Lambrusco when having spaghetti and meatballs, pizza, lasagna… you get the picture!

Bigger, Bolder Whites

Lately we’ve been reaching for Sauternes when it comes to white wines. This silky, botrytised white wine from France’s Bordeaux is often thought of as a dessert wine but it actually pairs best with savory fare.

While we understand the ethical implications, we’d be remiss if we didn’t say that this wine is unparalleled when paired with seared foie.

It’s also perfect with grilled lobster and anything pineapple.

Sauternes is pricey but if you’re in a metro area you may be able to find more affordable vins du naturel from southern France. Generally, these sweeter wines are a little more expensive because they can only be made in years when botrytis develops on the grapes, leading to more sugar.

Bring On The Touriga Nacional

We have been drinking a lot of Touriga Nacional. This grape is common in Portugal (we’re especially loving ones from AOC Dão) and Greece and is BIG. Like, really big.

If you love Cabernet and Bordeaux blends, Touriga Nacional is likely right up your alley. The best part about it? It’s complex but comes at a great price point. Get a blend for no more than $12. Want to really have your mind blown? Splurge on a $25-40 bottle of single varietal TN. Expect floral and black fruit notes along with surprises like mint and asphalt. See? Complex!

Our fav pairing for this puppy is linzer tarts. There’s just something about the interplay between the raspberries and the wine that is mind-blowingly good. For dinner, consider pairing with Cuban sandwiches, spicy meat dishes or with a selection of charcuterie and cheese.