This week’s post involves the first pairing, so I will make it an easy one. The appetizer is Hannaford’s Taste of Inspirations – Spanakopita. The wine that goes best, according to my team of experts, was either a NY State Riesling or a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. As a sommelier, I would recommend the Sauvignon Blanc. All of which can be purchased within Billy’s price range.
When dealing with appetizers, the “general rule of thumb” is Champagne/ Prosecco or Riesling (dry German style). Decent Champagne usually costs at least $50.00, although there are always exceptions (some of which I will cover in a later blog post). So, I generally recommend Prosecco or a NY State Riesling. Both of which can be had for less than $40.00 at most liquor stores. In this case, I used a Ravines Riesling from my collection, but you can get Hermann J. Wiemer from Clinton Wine & Spirits. The Sauvignon Blanc is a Taylor Pass, which can be found at the Clinton store. Either would work with this appetizer, but again my professional recommendation would be the Taylor Pass Sauv. Blanc.
Why the Sauv. Blanc with Spanakopita? First, it’s flaky phyllo dough with a filling of spinach and feta cheese. The Feta is the key here. Goat cheese & feta go best (generally) with a Sauv. Blanc. The spinach & phyllo dough go well with several whites, especially a dry Riesling. Hence, that as the second option. According to the NWS, you pair with the primary protein. Feta has 21g/oz., while spinach has 6g/oz., so a sommelier would most likely go with the feta. As far as the wine is concerned, if you don’t live in the local area or cannot get the Taylor Pass from Clinton Wine & Spirits, any 2-3 year old New Zealand Marlborough would do. Otherwise, if you preferred to go with the Riesling and could not get to the Clinton store, a 2-3 year old dry NY Riesling from Ravines, Forge Cellars, or Dr. Konstantin Frank would do, in addition to the H.J. Wiemer.
That’s it for blog post #2. Next week will be another Food & Wine appetizer; one of my wife’s favorites, a cheese board. Cheers!