Perfect Pairings for Oregon Pinot Noir: From Classics to Bold New Ideas

Oregon Pinot Noir is celebrated for its versatility, balancing bright fruit flavors, vibrant acidity, and earthy undertones. At Kramer Vineyards, we’ve crafted Pinot Noir that complements the flavors of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Whether you love timeless pairings like buttery salmon and wild mushrooms or want to try bold ideas like char siu pork and lamb burgers, there’s a Pinot Noir pairing for every occasion. Let’s explore how this exceptional varietal can elevate your dining experience.

Classic Oregon Pinot Noir Pairings

Northwest Salmon

The rich, buttery flavors of salmon harmonize beautifully with Pinot Noir’s bright fruit notes and acidity. Salmon’s natural sweetness enhances the wine’s elegance, whether grilled, roasted, or smoked. For a lighter twist, pair salmon with our Pinot Noir Blanc, which accentuates the delicate flavors of the fish while balancing its richness.

Wild Mushrooms

Wild mushrooms like morels, chanterelles, and porcini are earthy and savory, perfectly complementing Pinot Noir’s nuanced character. The wine’s subtle earthy undertones complement the mushrooms’ depth, creating a symphony of flavors. Try pairing Pinot Noir with mushroom risotto, flatbreads, or a mushroom tart for a truly satisfying meal.

Duck and Quail

The richness of roasted duck or quail perfectly complements Pinot Noir’s medium body and red fruit notes. The wine’s acidity cuts through the meat's richness, balancing its flavors and enhancing the overall dining experience. This classic pairing highlights the versatility of Oregon Pinot Noir with game birds.

Hazelnuts, Marionberries, Tillamook Cheese, and Oregon Truffles

These quintessential Northwest ingredients showcase the region’s bounty while pairing beautifully with Pinot Noir:

• Hazelnuts: Their nuttiness complements Pinot Noir’s earthy profile, adding a satisfying crunch to salads or charcuterie boards.
• Marionberries: Sweet and tart, these berries elevate the wine’s fruit-forward character, especially in desserts.
• Tillamook Cheese: Rich, tangy flavors in Tillamook cheese pair seamlessly with Pinot Noir’s balanced acidity, making it a standout choice for cheese platters.
• Oregon Truffles: With their luxurious earthy aroma, truffles enhance the wine’s depth and complexity, creating a pairing fit for a special occasion.

Unconventional Pairings

Char Siu Pork with Five-Spice

The savory-sweet flavors of char siu pork, seasoned with five-spice, align beautifully with Pinot Noir’s earthy undertones and red fruit character. The wine’s acidity balances the richness of the pork, while the five-spice adds a touch of complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Beet and Goat Cheese Tart with Hazelnut Crust

Earthy beets and tangy goat cheese bring out Pinot Noir’s mineral and red fruit notes, while a hazelnut crust adds a rich, nutty complement to the wine’s smooth texture. This pairing is both visually stunning and flavorfully harmonious.

Collard Greens with Smoky Ham Hock

Every New Year’s, we enjoy a meal of collard greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread—a tradition we love for its comforting flavors and sense of community. Slow-cooked collard greens highlight the smoky depth of a ham hock and pair beautifully with Pinot Noir. The wine’s balanced acidity and subtle tannins complement the greens’ hearty flavors while enhancing their earthy undertones. This pairing celebrates the versatility of Oregon Pinot Noir while honoring a meal deeply rooted in Southern-inspired cuisine.

Lamb Burger with Basil Aioli and Brie

A lamb burger brings robust, savory flavors that beautifully balance Pinot Noir’s acidity and fruit-forward notes. Topped with creamy brie and herbaceous basil aioli, this pairing adds layers of complexity while staying true to the wine’s elegance.

Korean Japchae (Glass Noodles with Vegetables and Beef)

Japchae’s sesame-seasoned glass noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and marinated beef complement Pinot Noir’s bright acidity and delicate fruitiness. The dish's savory, umami-rich elements enhance the wine’s earthy notes without overpowering its subtlety.

Why Oregon Pinot Noir is So Food-Friendly

Pinot Noir’s light body, vibrant acidity, and complex flavor profile make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Its ability to balance richness, highlight complementary flavors, and elevate simple ingredients is unmatched. Pinot Noir brings harmony to any table, whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or a multi-course meal.

Explore Pairings at Kramer Vineyards

Ready to experience these pairings firsthand? Visit our Tasting Room to explore our wines alongside local Northwest flavors. Or, check out our event calendar for opportunities to join us for guided tastings and food-pairing experiences.