Pairing wine with Mexican food isn’t about the type of dish as much as it is finding a wine that pairs with the sauce, herbs and spices in the dish. Finding pairings is so easy once you know the basics. It’s a little trick I picked up when working with celebrity Chef Rick Bayless at Frontera Grill & Topolobampo in Chicago. Below, you’ll find a quick reference guide. It takes the guess work out of finding great wines regardless of what Mexican dish you select.

I categorized the dishes into three main buckets–green, red and brown, since most fit into one of three. Lighter items that have green flavors like lime and green salsa pair best with white wine. Red dishes that have tomatoes, smoky chilies and red sauces pair best with light reds like Tempranillo and Barbera. Bolder dishes that have dark salsas and earthiness prefer more robust wines like Syrah, Mourvedre, and Zinfandel. Experiment and have fun!

 

Pairing wine with mexican food enobytes

 

If you’re looking for more Mexican Food wine pairings, there are many more to explore!