When it comes to French cuisine, the right pairing of food and wine can transform the entire meal. Traditionally, the basic guideline has been that reds are for dark meat while whites are for seafood and poultry. However, this is often too simplistic. A more accurate principle would be to match the strength of the flavors. Here are a few specific wine and food pairings you should taste in the future.

5 French Wine & Food Pairings You Must Try

1. Beaujolais & Pork

A light red wine, Beaujolais is low in tannins and can be quite sweet depending on the vineyard. This makes it a smart choice for delicately seasoned pork, whether it’s roasted, grilled, or fried.

2. Pinot Noir & Duck

Because it’s a red wine, Pinot Noir’s bitterness cuts through the fattiness of duck. It also tends to be a bit lighter and sweeter than other reds, which matches up well with duck that is often cooked with fruit. 

3. Syrah & Lamb

Much darker and full-bodied than the previous two, Syrah is wonderful with lamb, which is already rich, earthy, and often heavily spiced. It can also be very fatty, but the acidity and tannins of Syrah balance that out.

4. Chardonnay & Scallops or Lobster

Also known as a white Burgundy wine, Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wines. If oak-aged, it can possess a buttery flavor, but it's otherwise usually dry. Its lightness pairs nicely with the subtle flavors of scallops and lobsters.

5. Sauvignon Blanc & Shrimp or Oysters

Among seafood, shrimp and oysters often have stronger flavors, so they need a wine to match. The high acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc creates a bright, crisp zestfulness that keeps the overall taste fresh.

If you’re eager to try some elegant food and wine pairings, head to PARIS.HAWAII in Honolulu. Thanks to Chef Yuya Yamanaka, this restaurant is known for contemporary French cuisine with a creative, local twist. They offer a prix fixe tasting menu where every dish features fresh, locally sourced ingredients while simultaneously honoring traditional French techniques. Book a reservation online or call them at (808) 212-9282. For a sneak peek of their menu offerings, visit their website.