Food and Wine Pairing: Parmesan and Chorizo Risotto
A few full-bodied, winey rosés would naturally have complemented this recipe for risotto with Parmesan and chorizo. But this time, I’d like to suggest a magnificent red wine that really brought out the best in the dish, making for a truly successful food and wine pairing: Domaine Agarrus, L’Equilibriste.
To accompany a risotto with Parmesan and chorizo, I recommend a wine from the Cévennes region produced by Domaine Agarrus: the Equilibriste, a 100% Syrah.
Why this choice? A wine that is too light would be overwhelmed by the dish, whilst one that is too tannic or too rich would make the whole thing rather heavy on the palate. We therefore need a wine that is both powerful and well-balanced, with a refreshing quality that cuts through. Ideally, a Syrah whose peppery notes complement the spices in the chorizo.
Agarrus: The Tightrope Walker 2021
L’Equilibriste from Domaine Agarrus is a pure, elegant Syrah with a distinctly Rhône character. The depth of black fruit (enhanced by notes of ginger and spices) is matched only by the wine’s balance (naturally). A magnificent cuvée that beautifully illustrates the work and philosophy behind Serge Scherrer’s wines. Perfect with a chorizo and Parmesan risotto
The recipe for parmesan and chorizo risotto
Serves two:
- 150g risotto rice
- 1 shallot
- 100g chorizo (spicy or mild, depending on your preference)
- 1 small glass of white wine
- 50cl chicken stock
- 100g grated Parmesan
- olive oil
- freshly ground pepper
- a pinch of Espelette pepper
- Prepare 0.5 litres of chicken stock and bring to the boil. Keep warm.
- Finely chop the shallot
- Heat a dash of olive oil in a large frying pan or wok and gently fry the shallot
- Add the dry rice and chorizo and cook gently until they brown
- Pour in the white wine and let it reduce over a medium heat
- Gradually pour in the still-hot stock until the rice is covered
- Stir regularly. Adjust the cooking time by tasting regularly until the rice is al dente
Other suggested chords
Marie-Bérénice Bandol Rosé 2020
Marie-Bérénice’s Bandol rosé is a fine gastronomic wine from Provence. It explores the full range of expression offered by Mourvèdre to enhance the wine’s rich, indulgent character. A blend of Mourvèdre (80%) and Grenache (20%).
Arretxea Irouleguy Rosé 2021
The Arretxea estate’s Irouleguy rosé displays a distinct vinous character that fully lives up to its reputation as a wine for fine dining. The aromatic bouquet is sublime: strawberry, rhubarb and fresh lemon. The attack is lively, with a full-bodied texture that never compromises on its structure.