Why Champagne Is The Perfect Accompaniment To Roast Chicken

If you are serving a succulent dinner for loved ones or guests, you know that perfectly cooking your main dish is only half the equation — you also have to nail the wine pairing. Even takeout pizza has vintages that compliment it best. If you went through the time and effort to roast a juicy, golden chicken, you may wonder what vino will take your meal over the top. That's why Foodie spoke with chef Russell Kook of The Bellevue Chicago. The Bellevue is generally focused on the finer side of life, making chef Kook the ideal person to ask about sophisticated wine pairings.

When asked what wine accompanies roast chicken the best, Kook didn't mince words. "Champagne!" he exclaims. "Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the roasted chicken, while the bubbles provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors." A gorgeously-bronzed roast chicken is definitely fit for a celebratory dinner, so why not roll out the wine most associated with jubilation to pair with it?

Champagne, which is made of a specific blend of grapes from its eponymous region in France, is a chameleon that can suit almost any food. Chef Kook echoes this sentiment: "Honestly, Champagne pairs well with just about anything." A good Champagne's flavor notes can hit many of the main taste profiles — including sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and umami — meaning that it compliments a tremendous range of foods. Both roast chicken and Champagne can share buttery qualities that are a match made in heaven. The salty and umami qualities of your roast chicken will sing when paired with bubbly, in a marriage that chef Kook calls "truly perfection."

Of course, true Champagne is expensive, as it is a protected product. In a pinch, you can substitute Prosecco (which is similar, but not exactly the same) for a neutral, fizzy pairing. Your guests and loved ones will appreciate the care you took with the wine pairing when they take that first, delectable bite of your lovingly-prepared roast chicken!