7 minute read
Odd pairings
from Henry | Spring 2022
by ninetyblack
Whisky & Oysters
We Kiwis might be well-used to a glass of sauvignon or chardonnay with our Bluffies, but over in Scotland the nouveau pairing of choice with bivalves is a smoke-driven Scotch whisky. Opt for a peaty, maritimeflavoured Islay or Island whisky such as Laphroaig or Talisker.
Why it works:
The salinity of the seafood brings out the fruitiness in the whisky, while the smoke will complement the delicate flavour of the oyster.
Odd Pairings
Making delicious food and drink pairings doesn’t need to be the reserve of fine dining restaurants. Here are some delightfully unusual pairings that are guaranteed to please, whether you’re looking to spice up your Friday night takeaway or widen your drinks options next time you go out for dinner.
Champagne & Mac ‘n’ cheese
Champagne’s delicious chemistry with fatty, carb-loaded food is well documented: like Champagne and French fries, or fried chicken (allegedly The Foo Fighters’ favourite post-gig meal). But this combination seamlessly blends the sophistication of sparkling wine with the gluttony of the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food: mac ‘n’ cheese.
Why it works:
Whether you’re springing for an authentic French bubbly, or a crisp New Zealand méthode, the zesty spritz of a brut cuvee helps cut through the rich, decadent, sauce. Bubbles and acidity refresh the palate between bites, while the salt and fat in this dish amplify the body and fruitiness of the wine, making it appear more flavourful. It’s a match made in heaven – or maybe an upmarket diner.
Sherry & Sushi
While the well-known drink of choice with sushi is sake – what grows together, goes together after all – sherry offers an intriguing alternative. Having made a comeback in the wine and cocktail worlds in recent years, the many styles of this Spanish fortified wine make it a versatile food partner. For sushi and sashimi, choose a light, dry variety, like Fino or Manzanilla.
Odd Pairings
aking delicious food and drink pairings doesn’t need to be the reserve of fine dining restaurants. Here are some delightfully unusual pairings that are guaranteed to please, whether you’re looking to spice up your Friday night takeaway or widen your drinks options next time you go out for dinner.
Why it works:
As an umami-rich wine, sherry provides a strong backbone of flavour. The acidity breaks through fatty salmon and brings out the sweetness in the raw fish. Nutty, citrusy flavours in the wine are a delicious match with seafood and sushi.
Pinot Noir & a Big Mac
Have you ever sat down with your takeaway maccas and thought, I wish I had a great glass of vino to wash this down? If a sommelier isn’t to hand next time, try enjoying your beef burger with a glass of Martinborough pinot noir.
Why it works:
The lighter body and earthy, red fruit flavour of this region’s pinot noir pair perfectly with the beef patties in the big mac, while the briny pickles bring out the body and fruitiness in the wine.
Kombucha & Pizza
Another carb-rich, cheese-laden comfort food, pizza is often eaten with beer or wine to cut through the grease. But for those being more mindful with their drinking, you don’t have to resort to soft drinks with your slice. Kombucha offers a flavourful, low-sugar alternative, and there are a wide variety of flavour options on the market. We like the Original kombucha from Daily Organics for its rich, almost cidery flavour and subtle acidity.
Why it works:
Kombucha is naturally acidic, which provides a necessary lift to the richness of the pizza. The fermentation process creates CO2, leaving kombucha naturally sparkling, also helping to refresh the palate.
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reasons to Taupō
Huka Honey Hive
Live beehive, New Zealand’s largest range of honeys, mead and liqueurs, natural skincare, wellbeing products, homewares and an amazing range of unique gifts for everyone.
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Rapids Jet
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Cafe kiosk at Spa Thermal Park, on the edge of the Huka Falls walking track and the iconic Otumuheke Stream. Ice-creams, award-winning coffee, milkshakes and fruit smoothies.
Craters of the Moon
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Hukafalls Jet
Only jet boat company permitted to take you to the base of the mighty Huka Falls. This half hour of thrills, fun and excitement takes you along a beautiful river environment.
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Offering an exciting experience in Taupo Town Centre. Perfect for friends, couples, work groups and families. Solve the clues, get out in 60 minutes!
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Brantry House
The iconic ZeaYou Gallery and Brantry Eatery is a great place to visit. Indulge in contemporary culinary treats whilst surrounded by a curation of art.
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45 Rifle Range Road, Taupō 07 378 0484, 027 2781 362 thebrantry.co.nz | zeayou.com The Cave
Taupo’s portal to a new reality. Ascend the Himalayas, explore the depths of the abyss, orbit the milky way. Imagination and adventure collide at The Cave. Bookings recommended.
Opening hours: Wed, Thu & Sun 10am till 6pm and Fri – Sat 10am till 8pm The Landing, 650 Lake Terrace, Wharewaka, Taupō 0800 CAVE NZ | thecave.nz
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