Which Alsace wine to serve with asparagus ?
When spring rolls around, asparagus makes a welcome appearance on our tables, offering a palette of flavors that’s a perfect match for Alsace wines. But which Alsace wine should you choose to accompany your asparagus?
Here’s how to choose the ideal companion for your asparagus, featuring Muscat d’Alsace.
White asparagus: Muscat and Pinot Blanc
For tender, delicate white asparagus, opt for Muscat d’Alsace. Dry and aromatic, it adds a floral touch that complements the sweetness of the asparagus.
If you’re looking for an alternative, Pinot Blanc d’Alsace, with its light color and floral, fruity notes, is a wise choice. Its freshness and light acidity respect the finesse of asparagus, while bringing a beautiful harmony on the palate, which respects the finesse of the vegetable.
Green asparagus : Riesling and Sylvaner
For green asparagus, which is more herbaceous and has a more pronounced taste, a dry Alsace Riesling is ideal. Its lively, mineral character and citrus aromas create an interesting contrast with the greenness of the asparagus, emphasizing its freshness.
A more discreet but equally refreshing Sylvaner d’Alsace could also be a fine discovery.
Asparagus Violettes : Muscat in the spotlight
Slightly sweet violet asparagus is a perfect match for dry Muscat d’Alsace. The intense, fruity aromas of the Muscat envelop the sweetness of the asparagus, creating a match full of finesse and elegance.
The asparagus is also a perfect match for an Alsace Pinot Gris. Its ripe fruit aromas and round mouthfeel make it the ideal companion for this slightly sweet asparagus.
And for the audacious ?
If you’d like to explore new horizons, Gewurztraminer d’Alsace, generally reserved for spicier dishes, can provide a pleasant surprise with asparagus prepared in a lightly spiced sauce. Its exotic notes and round mouthfeel will add a touch of originality to your dish.
Tasting tips
For a successful marriage between these wines and asparagus, here are a few tips:
Prepare asparagus simply, steamed or lightly grilled, to preserve its natural flavor.
Serve with a light vinaigrette or hollandaise sauce for an added touch of deliciousness.
Serve Muscat, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc or Riesling well chilled, between 8 and 10°C, to enhance their aromas.
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Alsace wines are an inspired choice for sublimating all asparagus dishes. They offer a perfect balance between the aromatic richness of the wine and the delicacy of the vegetable. The important thing is to remain light and fresh, so that the wine and asparagus can express themselves fully. Cheers!