Prime-Time Pairings: Wine And Food For Your Emmys Watch Party
Each year, the Emmys bring together television's brightest stars. The occasion calls for a red carpet-worthy watch party, complete with classy hors d'oeuvres and light wines like pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc — plus plenty of bubbly Champagne for celebrating your favorite shows' big wins.
Top off your Emmys experience — and your glass — with these delicious food and wine pairings inspired by small-screen nominees:
"The Big Bang Theory": Riesling and Thai Chili Shrimp
Start your party the way Sheldon starts his week — with Thai-inspired flavors. Spicy Thai chili pairs perfectly with a light riesling for a big bang of flavor. The touch of sweetness in the wine complements the sweet heat of the chili, and notes of citrus bring out the flavor of lime, a common ingredient in Thai cooking.
"Downton Abbey": Champagne, Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries, and Brie
No sophisticated soiree is complete without Champagne — and nothing pairs with the acidity of sparkling wine like rich, creamy Brie. Opt for aged Champagne with nutty flavors to balance the fattiness of the cheese. Add chocolate-dipped strawberries for an aristocratic touch.
For another decadent pairing, serve the Brie with merlot — the proteins in the cheese will soften the merlot's tannins. All you're missing is the butler.
"American Horror Story": Sauvignon Blanc, Lobster, and Crab
Inspired by the Lobster Boy character in "American Horror Story: Freak Show," this pairing matches seafood with sauvignon blanc for scary good flavors. Seafood has a great texture and is often served in slightly acidic brine. Paired with a sauvignon blanc, lobster can be delicious on its own or in a white wine sauce to taste. This dish will work with other seafood as well — mussels, scallops, or crab are all great choices.
"Orange Is the New Black": Pinot Noir, Russian Pancakes, and Smoked Salmon
Prove that you're the master of the kitchen with this pairing inspired by the character Red in "Orange Is the New Black." Like Red, pinot noir has a bold, sharp bite that matches well with these Russian pancakes. Similar to a crepe, this Russian staple is commonly topped with smoked salmon for a pop of orange. If you're feeling fancy, swap the salmon for caviar.
"Game of Thrones": Bordeaux, Smoked Pork Loin, and Aged Cheddar
Dine like the Lannisters with a butcher's board piled high with smoked pork, green grapes, and aged cheddar. Pair these hearty hors d'oeuvres with a red wine inspired by the show or any Bordeaux. Serve this French red wine in medieval-style goblets for the full effect.
With these delectable wine and food pairings, you'll be partying like the stars in your own living room. Gather your friends, roll out the red carpet, and toast your favorite nominees with these simple, scrumptious pairings. Cheers!