Oysters, I love them. This is one of the reasons why I have trouble becoming a vegetarian. I can miss almost anything when it comes to meat, but shellfish, holy moly. And then oysters with a good glass of wine, there’s really nothing that can beat that. The most important question at this point is: What do we drink with oysters? I always say, there are many roads leading to Rome, so let’s discuss these roads here.
What wine with oysters?
Oysters and wine is a fantastic match as far as I’m concerned, maybe not everyone knows that you can go many ways. It doesn’t always have to be Champagne, although of course it’s a very tasty combo. In this article I look at the classics, the bubbles and the “crazy” combos.
Classic combinations
Chablis – called oyster water for a reason. 100 percent Chardonnay from a mineral fossil soil, called kimmeridge. You can imagine why this is a match.
Picpoul de Pinet – nice acidity, mineral tones, some citrus and fairly cheap. This wine from the south of France comes from calcareous soil and the sea is part of the terroir, making it a delicious alternative to expensive Chablis and often just as tasty with oysters.
Muscadet Sevre et main – a wine from the Loire, made from the grape Melon de Bourgogne, which itself has stood with its feet in the sea water and is wonderfully crisp and fresh. Extra beautiful when ripened sur lie. Top combination that never gets old.
Sparkling wine and oysters
Champagne or an Italian Spumante – personally I like everything better with Champagne but if we go specifically for oysters, I would choose a nice dry (extra brut or zero dosage) fresh champagne/spumante from only Chardonnay grapes (blanc de blancs).
Sekt – In Germany delicious Sekt is produced in the traditional way also Champagne is made. Often from Riesling grapes and usually dry with fresh acidity. Delicious with an oyster.
Experimental Combinations
I always enjoy doing research and going off the beaten track, that’s why on Instagram I asked people about their most experimental combination with oysters. They came up with some nice answers. Below is a list of combinations that at first sight might seem odd. Fun fact: I’m going to try all these suggestions soon and afterwards I will update this article with my findings.
- Sherry, Fino or Manzanilla
- Vinho verde
- Moscato d’Asti
- Assyrtiko
- Sauternes
- Pinot Noir
- Stout beer
Keep you posted!