Chili Con Queso & Wine Pairing

Cava, with its crisp bubbles and vibrant acidity, is an excellent pairing with Chili Con Queso. The sparkling wine’s effervescence cuts through the rich, creamy texture of the queso, refreshing the palate and balancing the cheese’s heaviness. Cava's citrus and green apple notes also provide a bright contrast to the savoury and mildly spicy flavours of the chili and cheese, while its dry finish prevents the pairing from becoming too overwhelming.

Prosecco, with its lively bubbles and crisp acidity, pairs wonderfully with Chili Con Queso. The sparkling wine’s bright notes of green apple, pear, and citrus provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy queso, while its effervescence helps cut through the cheese’s heaviness. Prosecco’s light, slightly sweet profile balances the spiciness from the chili peppers, creating a harmonious and enjoyable pairing. The wine’s freshness keeps the palate cleansed after each bite, making it an ideal match for the bold, savoury flavours of Chili Con Queso.

Off-dry Riesling pairs wonderfully with Chili Con Queso, offering a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich, creamy, and spicy flavours. The wine’s natural sweetness and vibrant acidity help balance the heat from the chili, while its fruity notes of peach, apricot, and citrus complement the savoury, cheesy elements. The slight sweetness of the Riesling also softens the spiciness, creating a smooth and harmonious pairing. Its crisp acidity cuts through the creaminess of the queso, keeping the palate refreshed after each bite,

Lambrusco, with its fizzy, refreshing qualities, pairs surprisingly well with Chili Con Queso. The wine’s light effervescence and fruity notes of red berries, cherry, and plum help cut through the richness and creaminess of the queso. Lambrusco's slight sweetness balances the spicy heat from the chili peppers, while its acidity refreshes the palate after each bite of the rich, cheesy dip. This pairing creates a fun and lively contrast, with the bubbly wine lifting the heavy, savoury flavours of the queso.

Beaujolais Villages, with its light body, fresh acidity, and bright red fruit flavours, pairs well with Chili Con Queso. The wine’s notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthiness complement the rich, cheesy dip, while its acidity cuts through the creaminess, balancing the dish's texture. Beaujolais Villages' low tannins ensure it doesn’t overpower the queso’s flavours, and its fruit-forward profile softens the spiciness of the chili.

Plus, you have to think about how the spiciness of the heat will only burn more with higher alcohol wines. Beaujolais is a lighter red wine, meaning it will offer more refreshment against the spice, rather than making your mouth taste like fire.