Diwali 2022 – Fizz pairings

This year once again, my family are experiencing a slightly different Diwali. A tad disappointed when I realised I wouldn’t be home on the day itself, this led to an obligatory wine and food pairing!

The Wines

Fox & Fox Tradition Brut Blanc de Noirs 2014
Champagne Gremillet Brut Selection

Fox & Fox are a name known to me and I was delighted to be able to meet Jonica Fox in person earlier this year at the annual Glass of Bubbly show!

The Gremillet was a gift from my cousin who remembered my penchant for sparkling wine and these pairings so I thought it an appropriate occasion to take it for a spin

On the menu

Starter – Aloo and Gobi pakoras
Mains – Saag Aloo and Crumbled Paneer with Pooris

How did the wines pair?

As a starter/nibble, pakoras may seem like an obvious choice with a glass of fizz. The risk can be to do with whether or not they are too greasy or the batter too much or what the filling is.

Verdict – both wines worked here. Tradition better with the gobi pakoras and Gremillet with the aloo pakoras

Saag Aloo – Again, any risk would be to do with the spice itself. On this occasion, I found the spinach to be a little on the bitter side, almost kale like. Amazingly, Tradition held its own and complemented this well where Gremillet was more the refreshing palate cleanser.
Both worked with the bites of aloo here.

Crumbled paneer – light, fluffy and almost creamy. Both wines worked though Gremillet was the more suited pairing.

General thoughts:
Of the wines listed here against this menu, I’d go for Tradition to pair with the meal and Gremillet for pre-and post tipple.

A very happy Diwali to you to all celebrating!

Author: Rupa Datta – rupa@portfolio-people.com