Peking Duck and Wine: Surprising Pairings to Try

If you love Peking duck, you've got to explore these unexpected wine pairings! I was shocked by how well they complement the dish. Check it out!

The Art of Enjoying Peking Duck

Peking duck isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience steeped in history, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Imagine this: you’re at a bustling Chinese restaurant, and the chef is slicing crispy-skinned roasted duck right before your eyes. Each piece glistens with rich fat, promising a flavor explosion. Traditionally served with wafer-thin pancakes, shredded cucumber, green onions, and flavorful hoisin sauce, every bite is designed to delight.

The authentic way? Start by dipping that golden, crunchy skin into sugar. It sounds odd, but trust me; it’s heavenly! After savoring that sweet bite, wrap slices of duck with a dab of hoisin sauce and fresh veggies in the pancake for a satisfying mouthful that perfectly balances richness with freshness.

Rethinking Wine Pairings

When you think about wine pairings for Peking duck, Pinot Noir immediately comes to mind—most wine professionals will suggest it as the go-to option. Its delicate fruit and fine tannins seem like a match made in heaven for roasted duck. But here’s where things get interesting: once you factor in those delicious condiments, Pinot Noir might not be your best bet.

Jennifer Docherty MW disagrees with this classic pairing logic. She argues that the linear profile of Pinot Noir can struggle against the richer mouthfeel of Peking duck soaked in hoisin sauce. Instead, she champions Spätlese Riesling, praising its acidity and sweetness as perfect companions to both the duck and its sauce.

Exploring Alternative Reds

If you’re leaning towards red wines but want something more versatile than Pinot Noir, consider Jennifer’s other suggestions:

• A ripe Clare Valley Shiraz
• A balanced Crozes-Hermitage Syrah
  Both wines offer fine tannins without overwhelming acidity—exactly what you need to complement Peking duck’s rich flavors.

Discovering Chinese Wines

Now let’s talk about an exciting twist: Chinese wines! If you’re feeling adventurous or want something local to pair with your meal, options like sweet Merlot or fruity Syrah from regions like Ningxia can enhance your dining experience. The emerging grape Marselan (a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache) offers another intriguing choice if you can find it on the menu.

Icewine for a Sweet Surprise

For those who enjoy dessert wines, don’t miss out on trying Chinese icewine, especially from Huanren in Liaoning province. These wines are rarely exported but pack complex flavors that beautifully cut through the richness of Peking duck when chilled properly.

FAQs about Wine Pairing with Peking Duck

What is the best wine for traditional Peking duck?

While many say Pinot Noir works well alone with roasted duck, adding hoisin sauce changes everything—try Spätlese Riesling instead!

Can I pair white wine with Peking duck?

Absolutely! An oaked Chardonnay can also work if you enjoy white wine—it brings out nice textures alongside the fat of the duck.

What should I avoid when pairing wine?

Steer clear of overly tannic or oaky reds; they can clash with the subtle sweetness and umami flavors from the hoisin sauce.

In summary, exploring different wines beyond conventional choices can transform your next meal into an unforgettable culinary adventure! Keep experimenting until you find your own favorite pairing.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash