Popcorn Shrimp & Wine Pairings

The best wines to pair with Popcorn Shrimp are Sauvignon Blanc, Champagne, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Sauvignon Blanc is the number one choice as the wine has lemon and lime flavours that cut through the batter, which makes every bite of popcorn shrimp taste as addictive and amazing as the last.

Popcorn shrimp consists of small, bite-sized shrimp that are battered, seasoned, and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The coating is typically made with flour, cornmeal, or breadcrumbs, often seasoned with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper (although, sometimes there is no seasoning at all). The result is a crunchy, savoury, and slightly sweet flavour with a tender, juicy shrimp inside. You can find popcorn shrimp at seafood restaurants, fast-food chains, grocery store freezer sections, or make it at home using fresh or frozen shrimp.

Chances are, if you are eating Popcorn Shrimp, you’re eating it in a chain restaurant like Red Lobster, or Long John Silver’s, and these chains are most likely going to have a limited wine list.  They’ll probably have Sauvignon Blanc on the menu, as well as Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio.  But anything beyond that is going to be slim pickings.  Thus, I’ve kept most of my pairings limited to that.

Of course, you can always get takeout or make the popcorn shrimp at home, and if you have the budget, I would suggest you try out Champagne, especially if it’s a special occasion.  Champagne’s bright acidity, lively bubbles, and notes of citrus and brioche cut through the crispy coating of popcorn shrimp, creating an instant party in your mouth. If you don’t have the budget, try a Prosecco or Cava, they are just as fun, but won’t have as much in the way in flavour.

Chardonnay makes a great pairing too, as the buttery flavours of the wine complement the deep-fried goodness of the breaded shrimp. I wouldn’t go too oaky, instead stick to moderately oaked Chardonnays as you still want that kiss of acidity and citrus to cut through the batter and draw out the sweet meat of the shrimp.

+ Click on the plus sign in the table below to expand upon why these individual pairings work! +