A Perfect Pairing: Kirby Estate 2019 Estate Chardonnay and Seafood Pasta Primavera

In this blog, we'll delve into the nuances of this pairing and guide you through a simple yet exquisite seafood pasta recipe to try at home.

The Complementary Nature of Chardonnay and Seafood Pasta

Kirby Estate's 2019 Estate Chardonnay, with its vibrant acidity and subtle oak influence, is a quintessential choice for seafood dishes. The wine's energetic crispness compliment and contrast the richness of the seafood, while its notes of tropical fruit and pear enhance the dish's flavours. The slight oakiness adds an additional layer of complexity to the overall dining experience.

Seafood pasta, often characterized by its delicate flavours and light, creamy sauces, pairs wonderfully with this Chardonnay. The wine's acidity balances the creaminess of the sauce, while its fruit notes bring out the sweetness of the seafood. It's a harmonious interplay of flavors where each sip of wine prepares the palate for the next bite of pasta, creating a memorable culinary experience.

Crafting the Perfect Seafood Pasta Primavera

Now, let's dive into the culinary side and prepare a delightful seafood pasta dish. This recipe serves four and is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 400g of your favourite pasta (linguine or fetuccini work well)
• 300g mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and mussels)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/3 cup diced sweet red pepper
• 1/3 cup frozen green peas
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Method:

• Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
• Cook the Seafood: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and after 1 minute the pepper sautéing for 3-4 minutes. Add the shrimp, scallops, mussels and peas. Cook until the seafood is just done (shrimp should be pink and opaque, and mussels should open). Remove the seafood from the skillet and set aside.
• Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a splash of Kirby Estate Chardonnay, the chile flakes  along with an equal part of reserved pasta water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.  Finish with a further equal part of cream.
• Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Add the cooked seafood back into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
• Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
• Pair with Wine: Pour each guest a glass of Kirby Estate 2019 Estate Chardonnay. The wine's crispness and fruity notes will beautifully complement the flavours of the seafood pasta.

This seafood pasta dish is a testament to simplicity and flavour. When paired with Kirby Estate's 2019 Estate Chardonnay, it becomes an elevated dining experience, perfect for any occasion that calls for a special meal. The key to this pairing lies in the balance - the wine's acidity and fruitiness against the richness and savouriness of the pasta.

Next time you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a gourmet experience, remember this pairing. It's not just a meal; it's an exploration of taste, a journey you'll want to take time and time again. Cheers to good food, great wine, and the moments that make life special.