CHAMPAGNE & SEAFOOD A Classic Combination

There is a reason why Champagne and seafood has long been a go to pairing. Champagne adds a layer of elegance to a seafood meal and when perfectly paired, a glass of Champagne can elevate any fish dish. The summer months are the ideal time to test these combinations with trips to the seaside, garden parties and holidays abroad offering ample opportunity for fresh seafood and Champagne. As such, the Champagne Bureau UK* shares its top tips on how to pair seafood with a range of Champagne styles.

The Food and Wine of Prestige

Freshness is unsurprisingly crucial when it comes to enjoying lobster and Champagne. As such, a vintage Blanc de Blancs would be an excellent choice. Vintage champagnes are matured for a minimum of three years but are usually matured for four to ten and exhibit nutty and toasted aromas, as well as honey and stewed fruits. The calibre of these wines and the complexity bought to them by ageing, makes them a wonderful companion to delicacies such as lobster.

Oysters and Umami

Umami is the key to this classic pairing. To some people’s surprise, umami flavours can be found in both oysters and Champagne. The levels of umami in Champagne are not evident on their own, however, when consumed with oysters an ‘umami synergy’ occurs – making the pairing particularly enticing. We would pair our oysters with a Brut Nature – this refers to a Champagne that has less than three grams of sugar per litre and no extra sugar added. A Brut Nature is distinctly crisp with light fruit flavours and floral hints and is an exquisite choice with fresh oysters.

Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon and Blancs de Blancs make for a match made in heaven. This style is the epitome of refinement and freshness and works perfectly with smoked salmon in any form. However, we would always choose a classic smoked salmon blini with a herby crème fraiche and a squeeze of lemon. The subtle flavours of the blinis can still shine alongside the crispness of the Blanc de Blancs.

An Alternative Way to Enjoy Champagne

Fish and chips might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of pairing Champagne. However, this British seaside classic, just like Salmon is excellent with an 100% Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs. Blended exclusively from white grapes, Blanc de Blancs possess notes of white flowers, citrus fruits and apples, pears and spices which will cut through the batter and make your fish and chips feel much lighter.