Wine Breakfast Pairings: Yes, It’s a Thing

Introduction

Who says a glass of wine is reserved for dinner or special occasions? Wine breakfast pairings are here to shake up your mornings in the best way possible. From crisp sparkling wines to classic mimosas, there's a pour for every plate. So, grab your glass, check that breakfast menu, and get ready to embrace a quirky and satisfying morning experience with our fun pairing guide.

Why Pair Wine with Breakfast?

Pairing wine with breakfast might feel unconventional, but great ideas don’t always follow tradition. As a versatile beverage, wine can add fresh and exciting flavors to your morning.

The Art of Pairing Wine with Breakfast Foods

Forget a cup of coffee for breakfast. Create harmony between the food on your plate and the wine in your glass. Here's why it works:

• Complementary Flavors: Crisp white wines with tangy fruit, bold reds, and hearty dishes like bacon and eggs complement beautifully.

• Balancing Act: A good pairing balances the food's flavors and the wine's characteristics, creating a more enjoyable dining experience.

• Playful Experimentation: There’s no rulebook here. Mix and match to find combinations and the best wine that will surprise and delight you.

Breakfast Foods and Wine Pairings

Turn a dreary morning into a spontaneous celebration. Pair the flavors and textures of each breakfast dish with wines that heighten the experience with these tips. 

1. Eggs

Egg dishes are versatile and pair well with various wines. Amanda Davenport recommends sparkling wine or a light, crisp white wine since eggs have a delicate flavor that can be easily dominated.

• Omelet: A simple omelet filled with herbs or cheese is enjoyable with Chenin Blanc or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

• Scrambled Eggs: Creamy scrambled eggs pair nicely with a light Prosecco or a soft dry Cava.

• Eggs Benedict: The richness of hollandaise sauce makes this a natural partner for Chardonnay's creamy texture or Champagne's finesse.

2. Bacon

The salty, smoky flavors of bacon shine alongside the fruit-forward notes of Pinot Noir or the slight sweetness of an Off-dry Riesling.

3. Fluffy Pancakes

These classic breakfast favorites pair wonderfully with Moscato d'Asti, thanks to its sweet and bubbly profile that complements maple syrup.

4. Oatmeal

Creamy oatmeal with fresh fruits or nuts perfectly matches a delicate Gewürztraminer or an Off-dry Riesling.

5. Croque Monsieur

This savory, cheesy dish pairs exquisitely with a bold Chardonnay or a sparkling dry Cava to cut through the richness.

6. French Toast

The ultimate and unexpected indulgence: French toast paired with wine. A Moscato d'Asti, or sparkling wine, balances the toast's sweetness and maple syrup's sticky richness.

7. Breakfast Sandwiches

Whether filled with sausage, egg, or avocado, a breakfast sandwich pairs well with the versatile sparkle of Prosecco or the balanced acidity of Sauvignon Blanc.

8. Cinnamon Toast Crunch

The cinnamon and sugar in this nostalgic treat work beautifully with an aromatic Gewürztraminer or a semi-sweet Chenin Blanc.

Savory Breakfast Wine Options

Savory breakfasts pack bold flavors, which demand equally heavy wines for the perfect pairing.

1. Steak and Eggs

The robust flavor of steak calls for an equally rich wine.

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Its full body and tannins stand up to the heartiness of the steak.

• Cool-climate Pinot Noir: A softer, fruit-forward choice that adds balance without overpowering the dish.

2. Bacon and Eggs

This breakfast staple is a versatile food pairing for wine.

• Rosé: Crisp and fruity, it cuts through the richness of bacon while complementing the eggs.

• Grüner Veltliner: A dry white wine with a subtle spiciness that matches smoky bacon perfectly.

3. Bacon and Cabbage

This traditional dish pairs beautifully with lighter wines.

• Electra Moscato: Its sweetness balances the earthy cabbage flavors and bacon's saltiness.

• Prosecco: The effervescence adds a refreshing contrast to the dish.

4. English Breakfast

A full English breakfast offers various flavors: eggs, bacon, sausage, and beans.

• Champagne: A versatile choice that pairs well with the variety of elements on the plate.

• Light wines like Grüner Veltliner: These add brightness without drowning out the meal.

5. French Fries

Often served as a breakfast side, fries deserve their own perfect pairing.

• Prosecco: Its bubbles and acidity cut through the saltiness of the fries.

• Rosé: A fruity and refreshing great option for this crispy side.

6. Avocado Toast & Smashed Avocado

The rich, creamy texture and subtle flavor of avocado pair wonderfully with crisp, bright wines.

• Dry white wines like Grüner Veltliner: Perfect for highlighting the creaminess without overpowering.

• Champagne: A crisp and elegant match for the simplicity of avocado toast.

• Mimosa: The creamy texture and mild flavor of avocado are lifted by the zesty and bubbly character of a mimosa.

7. Cream Cheese

The rich, tangy flavor of cream cheese pairs well with wines that have balancing acidity. 

• Chenin Blanc is an excellent choice as its bright acidity cuts through the creamy texture, creating a satisfying contrast. 

• Italian wines such as Pinot Blanc offer a lighter option that sweetens the subtle tang of cream cheese.

8. Peanut Butter

The nutty richness of peanut butter pairs well with sparkling wines and light, fruity notes.

• Prosecco: Its effervescence complements peanut butter's nutty richness, especially when paired with toast or pancakes.

• A light Italian wine that balances savory and sweet subtle flavors.

9. Goat Cheese

The tangy and creamy profile of goat cheese is elevated by wines with crisp acidity and bold character.

• Champagne: The bubbles and acidity make this pairing a perfect match for brunch spreads.

• Savory Food Pairings: Try goat cheese with a bold classic bec or Chenin Blanc for an enjoyable experience.

10. Bloody Mary or Red Wine for Heartier Breakfasts

For heavier dishes like steak and eggs or an English breakfast, a red wine can rival the boldness of a classic Bloody Mary. 

Fruity Breakfasts

Fresh fruits and fruit dishes are vibrant and pair well with wines with a touch of sweetness and bright acidity. Here are some easy wine breakfast pairings for you.

1. Yogurt

Paired with fresh berries or granola, yogurt finds a perfect wine match in a sparkling Prosecco or a fruity Chenin Blanc. These wines will take the creaminess to the next level and add a refreshing twist.

2. Fresh Fruit

• Red Fruit (strawberries, raspberries): A light Champagne brings out their natural sweetness while balancing acidity.

• Fresh Lemon (in fruit salads or dressings): Pair with a crisp Pinot Blanc or Prosecco to amplify the zesty flavors.

3. Weekend Brunch Pairings

• A mixed fruit platter or tart pairs well with Italian wine or Champagne, enriching sweetness without overpowering it. 

• For syrup or honey glaze dishes, a semi-sweet wine like Chenin Blanc pairs well with the flavors.

How to Choose the Perfect Breakfast Wines

The ideal wine improves the meal without dominating it. Follow these simple tips to choose the best bottle of wine for your next breakfast or brunch.

1. Balancing Flavors

A successful breakfast wine pairing begins with balance. Consider these factors:

• Sweetness: Dishes with syrup or fruit benefit from wines with a hint of sweetness, like Moscato or Riesling, to complement the flavors.

• High Acidity: Wines with crisp acidity, like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling options, cut through rich, fatty foods like eggs and bacon.

• Body: Pair lighter wines with delicate dishes and full-bodied wines with hearty meals for a balanced match.

2. Tips for Selecting the Perfect Wine

Match Wine to Ingredients

• Egg-based dishes: Opt for wines with higher acidity, like Champagne or Prosecco, to cleanse your palate after each bite.

• Savory breakfasts: Meals with bacon or sausage pair well with wines offering a subtle spiciness, such as Syrah or Gewürztraminer.

• Sweet dishes: For pancakes or French toast, look for fruity flavors in wines like Moscato or an off-dry Riesling.

Consider the Occasion

• First thing in the morning? Light wines with low alcohol content, such as a refreshing Prosecco, are ideal.

• A bold red or rich sparkling wine can add a celebratory touch on Christmas morning or other festive gatherings.

• For a good brunch with friends, choose versatile options like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a balanced Rosé to satisfy a range of dishes and tastes.

Selecting the right wine doesn't have to be complicated. Focus on the meal's primary flavors and trust your taste buds for the best pairing at breakfast.

Hosting a Wine Breakfast Pairing Party

Kick off your morning with sophistication by hosting a wine breakfast pairing event. Pair your favorite breakfast dishes with carefully selected wines for a memorable start to the day.

1. Setting the Scene

Creating the right vibe is key to making the event feel just how you want it.

• Glassware: Use wine glasses suited for the types of wine you'll be serving. For sparkling wines, flutes or tulips are ideal for preserving bubbles, while standard wine glasses work well for whites, reds, and dessert wines.

• Menu: Pair your wines with brunch dishes—sweet, savory, and everything. Include light options like fruit and yogurt, hearty favorites like bacon and eggs, and indulgent classics like French toast.

• Ambiance: Natural lighting, fresh flowers, and a curated playlist create a great place to relax and enjoy.

2. Highlighting Sparkling Wines and Versatile Pairings

Sparkling wines are a good option for breakfast pairings thanks to their high-acid wine profiles that complement both sweet and savory dishes: 

• Prosecco: Its delicate flavors pair wonderfully with creamy dishes, such as scrambled eggs or avocado toast.

• Champagne: A classic choice for special occasions. Its brightness enriches the flavors of smoked salmon and Croque Monsieur.

• Versatile Pairings: Offer a range of wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, and Pinot Noir, to suit the variety of dishes on the table and guests’ personal preferences.

3. Tips for the Breakfast Host

• Timing: When planning your menu, consider the time of day. Lighter wines are better for morning events, while a full-bodied red is a great wine for late brunches.

• Serving Suggestions: Pair wines in small pours to encourage guests to savor each next bite without overwhelming their palate. Use a wine dispenser to keep open wines fresh longer.

• Finishing Touch: End the meal with a dessert course with sweet wines like Moscato or Port. After all, it's a special occasion, so enjoy and indulge!

Wine Chilling Tips

The temperature can significantly affect your enjoyment, whether you drink tannic wines or lighter varieties.

Ideal Temperatures for Different Wines

• Sparkling Wines: Chill to 40–50°F to maintain refreshing bubbles and crispness.

• White and Rosé Wines: Best served at 50–60°F to highlight their fruity notes and acidity.

• Tannic Wines: Red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah taste better when served slightly cooler than room temperature, around 60–65°F.

• Sweet and Dessert Wines: Keep these at 40–50°F for a perfectly balanced sip.

Quick Chilling Tips

• Use an ice bucket with half ice and half water for fast results. This is great for spring brunches outdoors.

• Wrap a wet paper towel around the bottle and place it in the freezer for 15 minutes in a pinch.

Storing Wine for Brunch

Investing in proper wine storage helps keep bottles ready to serve. Here are some essentials to keep your wine in perfect condition every time.

• Wine Preservation System: A wine preservation system keeps opened wine bottles fresh by preventing oxidation, ensuring your wine remains flavorful and enjoyable for an extended period.
  

• Wine Fridge and Beverage Cooler: A wine fridge and beverage cooler keeps your wine at the ideal serving temperature, whether for reds, whites, or sparkling varieties. This specialized appliance ensures your wine is always perfectly chilled and ready for brunch or any occasion.

• Wine Cabinet: A wine cabinet provides a stylish and practical storage solution for your wine collection, with controlled temperature and humidity settings. This elegant furniture protects your wine from light and temperature fluctuations, keeping it in optimal condition.

• Ice Makers: The pros of having an ice maker are that it produces quick and efficient ice and keeps your drinks cool. Whether chilling wine bottles or adding to breakfast cocktails, ice makers ensure you never run out of ice on those warm brunch days.

• Wine racks: These racks are perfect for presenting your wines beautifully during brunch. They keep your collection organized and easily accessible, making it simple to choose the right bottle.

Conclusion

From sweet classics to savory matches, there are great pairings for every taste. Next time you're planning your morning meals, feel free to mix things up and discover your personal favorites. The best wine breakfast pairings are about having fun with flavor as you start your day.

We’d love to hear your tips and breakfast wine pairing recommendations! Share them in the comments.

FAQs

Is it better to drink wine in the morning or at night?

It depends on personal preference and context. Morning wine can be refreshing for brunch or special occasions, while evening wine is often associated with relaxation after a long day.

Is it good to drink wine first thing in the morning?

It's generally not recommended. Alcohol can affect your metabolism and hydration levels. Consider pairing wine with breakfast foods instead, and drink moderately.

Should you drink wine on an empty stomach?

Drinking wine on an empty stomach can result in quicker intoxication. It may also cause discomfort or an upset stomach. It’s better to have food in your stomach when consuming alcohol.

What wine is good to drink in the morning?

It depends on the meal you’re eating. But light, crisp wines are often preferred. Options include:

• Sparkling wines (e.g., Champagne, Prosecco)

• Dry white wines (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio)

• Off-dry wines (e.g., Moscato) for sweeter pairings.