In the ever-evolving world of TikTok trends, there’s a delightful new sensation making waves among food enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike – the wine and crisp pairing trend.
According to Google search data, “wine and crisp pairing” is trending again with it reaching a new popularity height in December 2023. With many people wanting to take on the trend themselves, what wine and crisp are a winning combination?
We teamed up with Baxters of Scotland, a luxury food hamper brand, and together we spoke with artisan sommelier Rory Anderson to explore how you can do the wine and crisp trend at home.
Rory said: “The wine and crisp pairing is a more accessible version of the classic cheese and wine combo. Although both are unequivocally palatable, the first one highlights the wine’s undertones in a different way and is more versatile in terms of pairing options. This makes it perfect for many occasions, whether it’s a get-together with friends, a classy social event, or an easy but delectable way to gather your close ones around the festivities.”
What is behind the wine and crisp pairing trend?
The trend began when TikToker Eli Rallo started tasting various wine and crisp pairings inspired by an infographic that was posted on Instagram by sommelier experts. Other TikTokers followed her in their endeavours to try the pairings and even invent their own. It wasn’t long before the trend went viral on TikTok and other social media channels.
“The reason this combination works is because the salty taste and satisfyingly crunchy texture of crisps help bring out the fruity flavours that are hinted in the wine. At the same time, the fat in the crisps softens the wine’s acidity while the potato amplifies the yeast complexity of the wine, catering to a more pleasant experience for the taste buds,” commented Rory.
White wines
Riesling and salt & vinegar
Salt and vinegar crisps are not to everyone’s taste, as the vinegar flavour is quite poignant, but they certainly pair well with Riesling. The high acidity and lemony taste of Riesling soften the vinegar taste, and it’s one of the few wines that can do that, so save your salt and vinegar crisps for when you open a bottle of Riesling.
Chardonnay and sour cream & onion
Sour cream and onion crisps have a nice zing to them, and they perfectly bring out the creamy and buttery taste of a Chardonnay white wine. The tropical fruit notes and the sharpness of the wine’s acidity provide a delightful contrast to the saltiness of these crisps.
Red wines
Malbec and smoky BBQ
Malbec, often featuring dark fruit notes like blackberry and plum, along with hints of chocolate and spice, and even a smoky, meaty flavour, complements and enhances the spice elements present in BBQ seasoning. The wine’s balanced tannins and acidity complement the indulgent flavours present in these crisps.
Pinot Noir and sweet potato crisps
When pairing sweet potato crisps with wine, striking the right balance is key. You need a wine that complements the crisps’ sweetness without overpowering them, and Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. With a delightful blend of fruity and earthy notes, Pinot Noir enhances the sweetness of the crisps, creating a well-balanced flavour symphony. Moreover, Pinot Noir’s lower tannin levels, compared to some other red wines, eliminate any astringent or bitter sensations that might clash with the sweetness of the crisps. Together, they make for a healthier and enriching wine and crisps pairing.
Rosé wines
Provence Rosé and prawn cocktail
Prawn cocktail crisps boast a nuanced blend of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess in their flavour profile. Opting for Provence Rosé makes for a delightful pairing, as this wine is renowned for its dry, crisp, and light-bodied nature, harmonising seamlessly with the subtle and refined taste of prawn cocktail. With its aromatic medley of red berries, citrus fruits, and floral notes, Provence Rosé perfectly enhances the inherent sweetness of the prawns.
Grenache Rosé and Thai Chilli Sensations
Pairing Thai Chilli Sensation crisps with a fruity rosé wine such as Grenache Rosé can be a delightful culinary experience. The fruity notes in the rose wine, such as strawberry, raspberry, or watermelon, can provide a pleasant contrast to the heat and spiciness of the Thai Chilli Sensation crisps, while the sweetness in the wine helps balance the heat, creating a harmonious flavour balance. Moreover, the inherent refreshing quality of a fruity rose, especially one with good acidity, can act as a palate cleanser between bites, enhancing the overall experience.
Champagne and ready-salted
For those who love a bit of sparkle, Champagne undoubtedly pairs well with ready-salted crisps. In fact, it’s a match made in heaven. Simplicity and sophistication meet in this classic combo, where the salty and savoury crisp refreshes your palate as you enjoy sips of Champagne’s effervescent radiance.
Conclusion
As the wine and crisp pairing trend continues to gain popularity on TikTok, it’s clear that people are seeking simple yet enjoyable ways to elevate their snacking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual wine lover, this trend provides a unique opportunity to explore the world of flavours in an elevated and accessible manner.
So, unwrap your hamper boxes full of premium wines perfect for the season and embark on a refined culinary adventure.
