Traditionally, Chinese / Lunar New Year is about a Reunion of family members and loved ones. It is about blessings, longevity, prosperity, and a time of togetherness. This can be seen in the Reunion dinner compromising of Chinese delicacies. Before we raise our glasses and prepare for a celebration and dive into a gastronomical adventure, let us present you with an ultimate food and wine pairing Guide for Chinese New Year.

Over the past decade, Pencai is gaining popularity because of its wholesome family concept and it consists of a trove of food treasures such as premium seafood, meats and other delicacies that are layered over each other then slow cooked in a pot. My choice being a Sauvignon Blanc or Chenin Blanc from South Africa.

 

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING GUIDE: LO HEI AND MOSCATO

“Loi Hei” Yusheng, a local interpretation of thinly sliced fish salad with an assortment of vegetables, by the “Four Heavenly Chefs” in the 60s. Fish or “魚” representing abundance. The recent trends being the use of Salmon, Abalone, Lobster and even vegetarian versions. Each restaurant has its own variant. The plum sauce is commonly use to drizzle over this salad. I opt for a Moscato d’Asti, made from Muscat Blanc. It is a low alcohol (5%) and super refreshing. Very aromatic with a nose of white stone fruit like peach and tropical fruit. Hint: Go easy on the plum sauce.

 

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING GUIDE: BAK KWA AND MASCHIO DEI CAVALIERI PROSECCO SPUMANTE DOC TREVISO EXTRA DRY WINE

Bak kwa, a perennial favorite tend to use a fattier cut of meat and liberal use of sugar. A good accompaniment would include a wine with good acidity that cleanses the aftertaste. As such, I would recommend a bubbly selection, such as a rose, Prosecco Spumante and Moscato d’Asti would be a divine choice.

 

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING GUIDE: PINEAPPLE TARTS AND FOUR COUSINS SPARKLING WINE

Pineapple Tarts, Love letters and prawn rolls are some of our all time favorite snacks. Experiment with following

A rose sparkling, Four Cousins from South Africa uses Red Muscadel tends to be fruitier with a slight tinge of sweetness.

Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry which tend to have less dosage (which translate to less sugar/ sweetness). Dosage is usually added to soften the acidity. Maschio dei Cavalieri offers a version with just a touch of sugar (liqueur d’expedition – a mix of sugar and wine).

Wishing you and loved ones a healthy and bountiful 2021!

Matthew represented Singapore for “Grand Prix Sommelier du SOPEXA”, held in Paris and is a Certified Sommelier (C.S) in Asia’s Inaugural Court of Master Sommelier.