Wondering what the best wine with lobster is? Here’s 10+ of the best lobster wine pairings to try out depending on the type of dish that you’re enjoying.
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10 Favorite Lobster Wine Pairings
- Sparkling Wine
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Rosé Wine
- Pinot Noir
- Grüner Veltliner
- Chablis
- Vermentino
- Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio
- Chardonnay
- Dry Riesling
This guide will equip you with the knowledge to unlock the secrets of the perfect lobster wine pairing.
Forget the Red vs. White Debate
Lobster’s versatility transcends the red vs. white divide. The key lies in complementing the flavor profile, not overpowering it. Let’s dive in to some perfect pairings based off of the type of lobster dish you’re enjoying.
By Dish Type
Creamy Lobster Dishes
- Lobster Thermidor, Creamy Lobster Ravioli, or Lobster Bisque: Chardonnay takes center stage. Opt for oaked varieties to mirror the richness of the dish. For a lighter touch, Chablis offers minerality and citrus notes.
Grilled Lobster
- Grilled or Roasted Lobster: Bright acidity is your friend. Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling cut through smoky char, while Grüner Veltliner adds peppery intrigue.
Spicy Lobster
- Lobster Fra Diavolo: Rosé comes to the rescue! Its acidity and fruitiness tame the heat, while Pinot Noir brings earthy notes to the party.
Lobster Rolls & Light Bites
- Summery Lobster Rolls or Salads: Keep it light and crisp. Vermentino or a Sparkling Wine offer acidity and minerality, while Rosé adds a festive touch.
Beyond the Basics
- Explore: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc, even Gamay can be fantastic partners depending on the dish.
- Consider the Sides: Asparagus with lemon butter? Opt for a wine that complements both seafood and citrus.
- Your Taste Reigns Supreme: These suggestions are a springboard, but ultimately, the best pairing is the one YOU enjoy the most.
Bonus Tip: Unleash the power of your local wine shop! Ask the experts for recommendations based on your specific lobster dish and preferences.
FAQ
What red wine goes with lobster?
You’ll want a lighter-bodied red wine to pair with lobster. That’s why Pinot Noir is a great pairing. Oregon Pinot Noir in particular has a spicy characteristic that is especially delicious with grilled lobster. Other light red wines to try are Beaujolais and Gamay.
What is traditionally served with lobster?
- I tend to serve fish with some asparagus, an arugula salad, or a fennel & celery salad on the side. Here are 25+ more amazing sides for lobster.
- You can also really elevate your dinner with a great sauce. So, be sure to check out these 10+ BEST Sauces for Lobster.
- But, the most important accompaniment (as always) is the wine!
More Wine Pairing Advice
- Wine Pairings for Pasta
- Wine Pairings for Fish
- Wine Pairings for Steak
- Wine Pairings for Pork
- Wine Pairings for BBQ
- Wine Pairings for Ham
Be sure to check out all my yummy seafood recipes.
Did you try any of these lobster wine pairings?
If you tried any of these lobster and wine pairing suggestions, I would love your feedback! Also, be sure to snap a picture of your pairing and share it with me on Instagram using the hashtag #platingsandpairings and tagging me @platingsandpairings.
For more great Platings and Pairings recipes and wine pairings, be sure to follow me on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest and Facebook.
Wine with Lobster: 10+ Options
Ingredients
- 15 ounce package lobster ravioli
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 shallot (minced)
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or dry vermouth)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice (plus ½ teaspoon lemon zest)
- 2 Tablespoons fresh chives (minced)
- Salt + Pepper (to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked lobster (chopped, optional )
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the ravioli.
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the tomato paste and stir well to combine. Cook until the tomato paste starts to get fragrant and begins to brown, 2-3 minutes.
- Add the wine and stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and reduce by about a half. This should take around 10 minutes.
- While the sauce is simmering, prepare the ravioli according to the package instructions.
- To the sauce, add the lemon juice and zest, chives and season with salt and pepper. Add the lobster meat, if using.
- Add the ravioli to the sauce and toss gently, to combine.
- Enjoy!
