Best Wine to Pair with Chicken Curry

A creamy chicken curry, such as butter chicken, pairs beautifully with an off-dry Riesling, whose acidity and touch of sweetness balance richness. Pinot Noir offers red fruit and soft tannins that won’t overpower the spices. This pairing is popular in regions with Indian-British culinary traditions.

Aromatic Gewürztraminer tames the chili heat of Thai green or red curry while enhancing lemongrass and coconut flavors. If you prefer red, Gamay has low tannins and bright fruit that can stand up to spice without clashing.

For island-style curries with allspice, scotch bonnet peppers, and ginger, Zinfandel brings ripe fruit and spice to match intensity, while Chenin Blanc offers a crisp, palate-cleansing contrast.

• Balance the heat – Off-dry whites or fruit-forward reds soften chili spice.
• Mind the sauce – Creamy sauces pair with fuller-bodied wines; tomato-based sauces benefit from high-acid wines.
• Consider the cuisine – Different curry traditions bring unique spice blends that affect pairing.