PAIR YOUR WINE WITH LOCAL SUMMER FOODS

There’s nothing like watching a great TV show or movie from the comfort of your home while sipping a glass of wine—and having something delicious to go with it. Our entertaining expert is back with her tips for making the perfect match.

BY STEPHANIE NASS

The age-old adage “in vino veritas” suggests that truth will be found by drinking wine. That might be occasionally true, but more reliably, pleasure is found in wine. And a key to enjoying wine is thoughtfully pairing it with food. The enjoyment of food and wine can be significantly enhanced by their combination. A good red wine can cut the fattiness of a backyard cheeseburger, increasing its deliciousness. Moreover, nothing beats a lobster roll with a good glass of ice-cold bubbles. Here we’ve paired several favorite bites Out East with wines that will make them taste their best ever.

Chardonnay changed the game for American wines; under blind testing, it was determined to be superior to French wines, at a time it was previously believed that France grew the best grapes. This wine won’t leave anything to be desired when imbibed beside a lobster roll.

TATE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

So much nostalgia is baked into these cookies. A cabernet sauvignon accompanies them beautifully. This varietal from The Calling offers some powerful spice that will add depth to your cookie enjoyment.

off cap for those moments that you forget your bottle opener.

CAVANIOLA’S CHEESE BOARD

The passionate purveyors at Cavaniola’s two locations know how to put a party on a platter. Enjoy this spread with some bubbly, ideally a crisp rosé. Sparkling Pointe is a winery on the North Fork, and its Topaz Impérial Brut Rosé is a lovely local accompaniment.

Backyard Cheeseburger

This classic barbecue staple is best served juicy, with a nice slice of Gruyère cheese, a brioche bun, and…a glass of red wine. Becker Vineyards has a nice malbec that would be delightful in between burger bites.

DIVE BAR PIZZA

This casual bar and pizzeria has become an icon on Montauk Highway in Amagansett. When you pick up your next cheese slice, pair it with an Italian rosé. This Rosato Calafuria from Tormaresca is an elegant and fresh choice.

RITA CANTINA FISH TACOS

BEACHSIDE S’MORES

This seasonal delicacy full of melted milk chocolate is great with a red wine. While you’re taking in the fresh sea air and the dessert sandwich, have a sip of pinot noir from a Hamptons local vineyard, Wölffer Estate.

Lobster Rolls

A lobster roll is the ultimate understated indulgence. The lobster meat, removed from its shell, is mixed with herbs and creamy dressing then served in a simple bun. Chateau Montelena

ROUND SWAMP’S CHICKEN FINGERS

These salt-crusted tenders have a cult following and are delicious with a crisp, clean sauvignon blanc, like this one from Brancott Estate. It has been widely decorated and conveniently has a twist

Anyone in East Hampton knows that Rita Cantina is a special place. Its ingredients are as locally sourced as possible, and the vibe is nicely chill. Make your experience even more memorable with some champagne. Perrier-Jouët’s Belle Epoque Brut is dry and not sweet.

CARISSA’S CHOCOLATE BOUCHONS

These wine cork–shaped brownies are perfect with Avaline’s red blend.

Grindstone Donuts

Brioche donuts in unusual flavors never disappoint. Each flavor has its own profile, but if you go for a plain glazed donut, pair with a prosecco. Eataly ships all its wines to the Hamptons and has a wide selection of Italian sparkling wines. T