Matching Wines With Game

Generally you can select the type of wine that best matches a game dinner according to the shape of the bottle. For instance,

1. White wine, tall hock (Rhine) bottle - since this is a cool climate light-bodied white wine with floral and citrus character, it is ideal with fresh water fish.
    
2. White wine, shorter bottle with sloping shoulders - tends to be buttery and rich in flavours. This type of wine is a good match for foods containing cream, cheese and /or butter. It is a great match with Arctic Char in Puff Pastry (see ARCTIC CHAR IN PASTRY).
    
3. Red wine, sloping shoulders (Burgundy) - medium body. A good match for game sausages or grilled chops, and other simple preparations. Gamay, Pinot Noir and Merlot are also good with game birds.
    
4. Red wine, tall, rounded shoulders (Bordeaux) - a classic, "big" red. When young (up to 4 years old), it has an aggressive character. Serve this with game meats cooked to rare doneness. Serve an older/aged red with well done meats such as braised or stewed meats.

Matching Wines With Game