Why This Sommelier Loves Everyday Wines and Unique Pairings

If you’re curious about delightful wine experiences, Mikk Parre's recommendations will inspire your next bottle choice!

A Journey Through Wine: Mikk Parre’s Insights

As a sommelier with over 13 years of experience, wine has been the thread weaving through my life, leading me to unforgettable experiences and rich flavors. I remember my first memorable encounter vividly: it was a casual night at a neighborhood restaurant when a senior colleague brought in a jeroboam of Château Léoville Las Cases 1962. That wine opened my eyes to the world of complexities and subtleties in flavor that I had never grasped before. It was this moment that solidified my path towards becoming a sommelier.

Embracing Everyday Wines

In my day-to-day life, I find joy in simpler wines. My go-to choices often include fresh whites like an Austrian Grüner Veltliner or a zesty Spanish Albariño—perfect companions for light meals or simply sipping on warm evenings. For reds, I lean towards easygoing varieties such as Barbera from Piedmont or a gentle Garnacha from Spain. These wines embody balance without overwhelming the palate, allowing me to enjoy them after long shifts.

Supermarket Gems Worth Seeking Out

When it comes to stocking up on wines, I have two favorites that are usually available at supermarkets: a dry-style Mosel Riesling and a crisp Vinho Verde. They both provide excellent quality at accessible price points and can elevate any casual gathering with friends.

Lessons from the Floor: Humor in Mistakes

Mistakes are inevitable in the fast-paced world of hospitality, and one of my most embarrassing moments still brings a smile. During a busy lunch service, I misunderstood a guest’s request for water as six vodkas—imagine the confusion! The guest laughed heartily when he realized what happened, turning an awkward moment into an enjoyable anecdote that lightened the atmosphere.

Breaking Down Wine Snobbery

One thing I truly believe is that wine should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Too many people take themselves too seriously in this industry; if someone wants to add ice to their wine or drink Champagne from a coupe glass instead of a flute, who am I to judge? Our job is to guide our guests on their journey through wine without enforcing rigid rules.

Pairing Perfection: A Dream Meal

If stranded on a desert island with only one pairing, it would undoubtedly be pan-fried foie gras paired with luscious Tokaji Aszú. This combination not only satisfies but also embodies luxury and indulgence—a true treat for any food lover.

Unforgettable Food-Wine Matches

One of the standout pairings I’ve created involved smoked eel with beetroot-potato salad and pickled vegetables, served alongside Golan Heights Winery’s Mount Hermon Red. The smoky intensity of the eel demanded something robust yet juicy; this Bordeaux blend delivered perfectly and transformed an unusual dish into an exceptional dining experience.

Simple Pleasures After Work

After long hours in the wine world, nothing beats the simplicity of a grilled cheese sandwich paired with something bubbly—whether it’s crémant or Champagne. It’s comforting and reminds me why I love food and wine so much; they bring joy even in their simplest forms.

Best Value Finds for Wine Enthusiasts

During my time at Time to Wine Rotermanni, one standout bottle was the Envinate Albahra 2019, an Alicante Bouschet from Almansa priced at €25. It offers incredible depth while being budget-friendly—a true testament to value in today’s market.

Navigating Restaurant Lists Wisely

When curating restaurant lists, I’ve learned there aren’t hard rules—especially concerning pricing tiers. Instead of avoiding specific price points blindly, focus instead on avoiding overly rare wines where authenticity could be questionable—wines like Petrus or DRC should be approached cautiously.

Exciting Trends in Wine Regions

The revival of ancient winemaking regions excites me tremendously! Places like Greece and Georgia are showcasing indigenous grape varieties that produce unique styles under young winemakers’ care—a refreshing change in today’s market.

Personal Preferences: What Not To Choose

I must admit there are certain wines that don’t excite me much—specifically Gewürztraminer and Sangiovese. While these varietals have produced some stellar bottles out there, they often fall flat for my palate; we all have our preferences!

A Love Letter to Portugal’s Wine Regions

For value seekers, Portugal is unparalleled! Regions like Bairrada deliver diverse wines without breaking the bank. Even places like Lisbon are gaining popularity but still offer superb wines at reasonable prices—now is definitely the time to explore!

A Special Place: Santorini Awaits

If you ever get the chance to visit Santorini in Greece, do not miss it! The beautiful landscape combined with unique viticulture makes every vineyard worth visiting—the local Plethora Assyrtiko from Vassaltis Vineyards is simply divine!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should beginners know about choosing wine? Start simple! Look for lighter-bodied wines; they tend to be more approachable.
• Is price always an indicator of quality? Not necessarily! Many affordable options offer fantastic taste without hefty price tags.
• How do I pair food with wine? Consider contrasting flavors; rich foods need fresh acidity while lighter dishes can handle bolder reds.

Photo by henry fournier on Unsplash