Food and Wine Pairing Guide 

Welcome to The Trinkfluss Food and Wine Pairing Guide – your go to spot for tasty inspiration, designed to help you match up some truly unique wines with equally fantastic food. Think of this as a friendly guide to exploring the flavours of Germany, Austria and beyond, with wines that are as food-friendly as they come. Here, it’s all about inspiring you to try new things, break a few “rules,” and find the pairings that bring a smile to your face.

We know the world of wine pairing can sometimes feel like a maze of dos and don’ts, but here at Trinkfluss, we’re all about keeping it simple and fun. We believe wine should enhance whatever’s on your plate, but without the pressure. Want a dry Riesling with a burger? Go for it! Curious about Grüner Veltliner with spicy noodles? Absolutely. Our guide is filled with ideas that highlight the natural harmony between these wines and a variety of dishes, but it’s not a rulebook. The only real guideline here? Eat, drink, and enjoy whatever you like so use this Food and Wine Pairing Guide as inspiration rather than a firm set of rules.

Blaufränkisch

An Austrian red known for dark fruit, peppery spice, and refreshing acidity, ideal for grilled and spiced dishes.

• BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich (vegetarian): The wine’s dark fruit complements smoky BBQ flavours, while acidity keeps it lively.
• Burgers with Caramelized Onions: Blaufränkisch’s acidity cuts through richness, and its spice matches the onions’ sweetness.
• Goulash: This hearty pairing works well as the wine’s bold flavour stands up to the dish.
• Roasted Root Vegetables (vegetarian): Blaufränkisch’s spiciness plays well with earthy, caramelized veggies.

Chardonnay

Whether oaked or unoaked, Chardonnay brings a mix of citrus, apple, and sometimes a buttery richness that pairs well with roasted and creamy dishes.

• Butternut Squash Soup (vegetarian): The rich, creamy texture of the wine amplifies the soup’s smooth flavors.
• Fish and Chips: A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay brightens up this classic, balancing the fried coating and flaky fish.

 

• Mushroom Risotto (vegetarian): Creamy textures in both the wine and dish make for a comforting match.
• Roast Chicken with Creamy Mash: A lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the roast’s savoury flavours and creamy sides.

Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris)

This German/Austrian Pinot Gris offers flavors of pear, stone fruit, and often a touch of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser for rich dishes.

• Chicken Tikka Masala: A richer, fuller Grauburgunder stands up to creamy sauces and mild spices.
• Goulash: Grauburgunder’s fruitiness offsets the hearty, savoury stew flavours, bringing freshness to each bite.
• Mushroom Stroganoff (vegetarian): The wine’s rounded texture complements the creamy sauce, enhancing earthy mushroom flavours.
• Vegetable Tarte Flambée (vegetarian): The creamy, smoky flavours of the tarte align with Grauburgunder’s fruit and spice.

Grüner Veltliner

Austria’s signature grape, with citrus, green apple, and a characteristic hint of white pepper, great for complex, herbaceous flavors.

• Asparagus with Hollandaise: A traditional pairing in Austria, Grüner’s flavors harmonize beautifully with the herbaceous asparagus.
• Caesar Salad (vegetarian): Grüner’s acidity balances the dressing, and the peppery edge complements the parmesan.
• Schnitzel: A classic pairing, Grüner’s acidity cuts through the fried coating, while peppery notes match well with breaded meats.
• Sushi and Sashimi: The wine’s fresh acidity and slight spice elevate delicate flavours without overwhelming them.

Riesling

Known for its bright acidity and versatility, Riesling’s flavors range from green apple and lime to peach and honey, depending on the style.

• Käsespätzle (Austrian cheese noodles – vegetarian): Riesling’s acidity cuts through the creaminess and cheese, refreshing your palate with every bite.
• Sunday Roast with Pork or Chicken: The acidity cuts through the richness, while the fruit notes play well with roast veggies.
• Thai or Indian Curry (especially with a slightly off-dry Riesling): Balances spice and highlights flavors without overpowering.
• Vegetarian Stir-fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce: The wine’s acidity and fruit add brightness to rich, umami flavours.

Sauvignon Blanc

Known for zesty acidity and herbaceous notes, Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with fresh, vibrant flavours and herb-driven dishes.

• Goat Cheese Salad (vegetarian): The wine’s acidity balances the richness of goat cheese, enhancing leafy greens.
• Grilled Fish Tacos with Salsa Verde: The zestiness and lime notes in Sauvignon Blanc are a refreshing match.
• Grilled Halloumi with Lemon and Mint (vegetarian): The wine’s herbal, citrus character complements the salty, fresh halloumi.
• Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Herbs and Peanut Sauce: Sauvignon’s herbal notes highlight fresh herbs, while acidity balances richness.

Silvaner

Silvaner is subtle, with hints of herbs, earthy minerality, and a balanced profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh and mild flavours.

• Sauerkraut and Sausages: Silvaner’s acidity and earthiness match well with tangy sauerkraut.
• Spinach and Feta Pie (vegetarian): The gentle acidity balances the salty feta and earthy spinach.
• Vegetarian Tart with Goat Cheese and Vegetables: Complements savory vegetable flavors without overpowering.
• White Fish with Lemon and Herbs: Silvaner’s herbal notes and minerality enhance delicate fish.

St. Laurent

This red is a cousin to Pinot Noir, with soft tannins, dark fruit, and a hint of spice—a versatile pairing option for rich dishes.

• Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce: The wine’s cherry notes match beautifully, complementing the richness of duck.
• Moussaka: St. Laurent’s acidity and earthiness cut through the layers of meat, cheese, and spices.
• Mushroom and Lentil Loaf (vegetarian): Earthy flavors in the wine enhance this hearty, vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Pumpkin and Sage Risotto (vegetarian): Complements the dish’s creamy texture, with a lovely contrast to sage’s earthiness.

Teroldego

A dark, robust red with black fruit and earthy tones, Teroldego stands up to bold flavours and rich dishes.

• Beef Stew: Teroldego’s depth and tannins complement a hearty stew with root vegetables.
• BBQ Ribs: Teroldego’s structure and black fruit balance the smoky, savoury flavours.
• Lentil Shepherd's Pie (vegetarian): The wine’s earthiness and dark fruit balance the savoury lentil filling.
• Wild Mushroom Pasta (vegetarian): Enhances the umami of mushrooms and pairs with earthy elements.

Trollinger

Also known as Schiava, Trollinger is a light, fruity red with floral notes, perfect for casual meals and easy drinking.

• Charcuterie and Cheese Board: Trollinger’s lightness pairs well with an assortment of cheeses and cured meats.
• Roasted Vegetable Tarts (vegetarian): The fruity flavours enhance sweet roasted veggies without overpowering.
• Sausages and Mustard: Complements savoury flavours, and Trollinger’s freshness lifts the dish.
• Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta (vegetarian): Trollinger’s gentle acidity adds brightness to creamy pasta dishes.

Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)

Weissburgunder is gentle, elegant, and typically softer in acidity than Pinot Gris, with flavours of apple, pear, and almond. A truly great alternative to Chardonnay.

• Light Curries with Coconut Milk (vegetarian): Weissburgunder’s subtle flavours won’t compete with gentle spices and creamy textures.
• Quiche Lorraine (vegetarian): Its light texture matches the quiche’s richness, without overpowering the flavours.
• Roast Pork with Apple Sauce: The fruity, delicate flavours of Weißburgunder work harmoniously with apple and pork.
• Vegetable Tagine (vegetarian): The wine’s fruitiness complements the sweet and savoury notes of the dish.

Zweigelt

A fruity, easy-drinking Austrian red with bright cherry notes and a touch of spice, perfect for lighter meats and veggies.

• Charcuterie Board: Great with a variety of meats and cheeses, Zweigelt brings balance to salty and savoury flavours.
• Pizza with Tomato and Mozzarella (vegetarian): Zweigelt’s acidity and fruitiness match well with tomato sauce and cheese.
• Roasted Chicken with Herbs: Zweigelt’s light spice and fruit lift the dish without overpowering.
• Stuffed Peppers (vegetarian): The wine’s fruity character complements the mild spice and sweetness of peppers.