What wine to drink with Schnitzel?

Consisting of a thin slice of meat coated in breadcrumbs and carefully browned, this refined dish has traversed the ages, embodying European culinary tradition. Choosing the right wine to accompany a schnitzel is crucial to reveal the nuances of this delicate dish without overwhelming its flavors. This article explores the ideal food and wine pairings to elevate your schnitzel, whether it’s veal, pork, or chicken, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience.

What Wine to Pair with Schnitzel?

An essential recipe in Austrian and German gastronomy, schnitzel is a true institution. Traditionally, schnitzel consists of a thin slice of veal coated in breadcrumbs and fried, often served with a lemon slice and cranberry sauce. With its crispy, golden crust and juicy, tender meat inside, schnitzel is an accessible, economical dish that appeals to many. While traditionally made with veal, there are numerous variations with pork, chicken, and even tofu! Regardless, this iconic recipe that has crossed borders deserves a wine that complements its flavors.

Choosing the ideal wine to pair with schnitzel depends on several factors, including the type of meat and personal preferences. For veal schnitzel, a complex dry white wine, such as an Alsace Riesling or a Burgundy Chardonnay, can beautifully complement the delicacy of the veal. These wines, with their balance of aromatic persistence and freshness, highlight the finesse of the dish without overwhelming it. For pork or chicken schnitzel variants, consider a light to medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Gamay, from Alsace, Beaujolais, or the Loire. These wines, characterized by their fruitiness and softness, harmonize with the rich texture of the breadcrumbs, providing a pleasant contrast. A structured dry rosé from Provence, with its freshness and fruity notes, is also an excellent compromise, especially for summer days.

The Best Food and Wine Pairings with Schnitzel (or Wiener Schnitzel)

For a pairing that recalls the Germanic origins of the recipe, opt for a dry white wine based on Riesling from an AOC Alsace Riesling or AOC Alsace Riesling Grand Cru, whether still or sparkling. Its tonic citrus aromas, fresh fruit notes, and mineral hints of flint, along with its natural acidity, will cut through the richness of the breadcrumbs, balancing the flavors in the mouth.

If you prefer red wine, look to a Beaujolais red from a domain or château in Chiroubles or AOC Régnié. With their soft tannins and gourmand aromas of red fruits (raspberry, currant) and violet, these easy-drinking reds wonderfully accompany schnitzels with cranberry sauce.

For a more summery food and wine pairing, try a structured rosé from Provence or the Rhône, from a domain or château in AOC Bandol or AOC Tavel. These rosés offer a beautiful freshness and spicy, floral notes that highlight the crispy texture of the schnitzel.

Want to perfect your food and wine pairing with schnitzel or Wiener schnitzel? Explore our selection of wines at Avenue des Vins and enjoy our cuvées with the best value-for-money, directly from the domain or château of your choice! White, rosé, or red wine, we surely have the wine you need to complement a schnitzel or any other recipe.