A classic guide to wine will suggest pairing red wine with red meat and white wine with fish—both of which are great options for those who choose to eat meat. Other complementary foods include chocolate and cheese, which are suited to vegetarians, but not vegans. Now that many people are choosing to expand their horizons with plant-based eating, New York Times' Wine Folly recently shared an updated wine guide specifically for vegetarian and vegan wine lovers.
As the guide describes, "Contrary to what the carnivores would have you believe, vegetarian food offers equally delightful pairings and can even stand up against bolder red wines than many meat-based dishes." Quinoa, tempeh, tofu, beans and alternative meat products such as those made by companies like Quorn and Gardein are highlighted in this guide as meatless proteins. Wine Folly also covers how to balance flavors, fat and umami in plant-based cooking to round out the boldness of red wines.
Plant-Based Wine Pairings
Wine Folly's Guide to Wine Shares Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Wine Pairings for Vegetarians and Vegans - Opportunity for wineries to create and market plant-based wine pairings specifically tailored to vegetarians and vegans.
2. Expanding Wine Guide for Plant-based Eating - Opportunity for wine experts or blogs to create comprehensive wine guides that cater to the growing market of plant-based eaters.
3. Highlighting Meatless Proteins in Wine Pairings - Opportunity for food companies specializing in alternative meat products to collaborate with wineries to create wine pairings that complement these plant-based proteins.
Industry Implications
1. Wine Industry - Disruptive opportunity for wineries to tap into the growing market of plant-based eaters by offering plant-based wine pairings and expanding their target audience.
2. Food Industry - Opportunity for food companies specializing in vegetarian and vegan products to collaborate with wineries and create wine pairings specifically designed for their offerings.
3. Wine Blogging Industry - Ideal chance for wine bloggers or influencers to create content and guides that cater to the plant-based eating community, providing them with valuable information on wine pairings.