As we all gear up for another weekend at home, many of us will be treating ourselves to some takeout—and many more of us will be treating ourselves to an end-of-the-week glass of wine. For those who will be partaking in both, why not maximize the enjoyment by pairing the perfect glass of wine with whatever is in the takeout box? I spoke with the team at 90+ Cellars, a brand created during the widespread economic uncertainty during the ‘Great Recession’ of 2008-2009. The founders began by going to top wineries and buying their surplus bottles for a discount and passing those savings onto consumers who were craving a premium taste at an affordable price. That key onus is still central in the brand’s offerings today, making them just the choice for a fun takeout meal at home. These are a few pairing recommendations from their connoisseurs.
A bottle of 90+ Cellars Prosecco and some French Fries from Pammy’s in Cambridge, MA
Fries & Bubbly
The acidity and effervescence of a sparkling wine is the perfect pairing for crispy, salty fries. Fried foods beg for something to refresh the palate and a Prosecco or a Champagne will do just that, making for an appropriately celebratory high-low dinner at home. 90+ Cellars offers a selection of sparkling wines priced from $12.49-$35.99.
Pasta & Barolo
A bottle of 90+ Cellars Pinot Noir and the Lumache pasta from Pammy’s in Cambridge, MA
If you’ll be ordering from your favorite Italian restaurant, a classic meaty Bolognese is best matched with a robust Italian red. Those that are “heavy on the tannins” like: Barolo, Rosso Toscana and Barbaresco are especially well-suited according to the team. But if your pasta dish isn’t that meat-focused, a fruity Pinot Noir is a great option, especially if the dish has some spice. If you feel like treating yourself, 90+ Cellars offers a Barolo for $33.99 and their Pinot Noir options start at $12.49.
White Pizza & Chardonnay
Everyone loves Pizza, but at this point in your self-quarantine you are probably tired of Pepperoni, so why not expand your horizons by ordering a white pizza this weekend and pairing it with a like a full-bodied Chardonnay or an earthy Sauvignon Blanc? The buttery Chardonnay is a smart match for a cheesy pizza, perhaps topped with some mushrooms or truffles. But if you can’t walk away from your meat toppings, go for a Cabernet Sauvignon. The greasy, belly warming pizza will be gently washed down and “balanced by the tannins in a full-bodied Napa Cab” according to the team at 90+ Cellars.
Dessert & Dessert Wine
The 90+ Cellars Lambrusco with some chocolate chip cookies
Moscato or Lambrusco can be just the sweet finish required after a great meal. And these days, while we are all in quarantine, for those of us who are really missing the classic coursed-out restaurant experience, a dessert wine pairing can be just the treat to cheer us up. Many restaurants are offering fresh baked goods on their takeout menus, and the Lambrusco from 90+ is just sweet and bubbly enough to tantalize the taste buds as you enjoy a splurge-worthy piece of cake or box of cookies.