When it comes to choosing the perfect wine to pair with your meal, don’t overlook the expertise of the chef. While sommeliers are traditionally the go-to for wine recommendations, chefs can offer valuable insights into which wines will complement their dishes best.
Justin Pichetrungsi, a 2022 Food & Wine Best New Chef, emphasizes the importance of pairing food with wine rather than the other way around. He believes that when you have a specific wine in mind, you can ask the sommelier for menu suggestions that will enhance the wine-drinking experience.
Chris Shepherd, a 2013 F&W Best New Chef, advises thinking regionally when it comes to wine pairings. He suggests considering where the food is from and what wines are traditionally produced in that region. By understanding the producers and styles you enjoy, you can find wines that resonate with your palate.
When it comes to challenging pairings, like Texas barbecue, Shepherd recommends serving bubbles like Champagne. The effervescence of the Champagne helps to cut through the richness of the barbecue and cleanse the palate between bites.
Contrary to popular belief, seafood can be paired with red wine depending on the preparation and flavors of the dish. Pichetrungsi suggests pairing a flavorful crab curry with a Beaujolais or dry Lambrusco for a delicious combination of flavors.
For a unique dining experience, consider the ‘Champagne reset’ where a glass of bubbles is served before dessert to refresh the palate. This practice helps to cleanse the palate and prepare it for the sweet flavors of dessert.
Lastly, don’t overlook dessert wine when it comes to pairing with sweets. Pichetrungsi recommends pairing mango sticky rice with Madeira for a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. Dessert wines can elevate the dining experience and create memorable moments at the end of a meal.
By taking advice from chefs like Pichetrungsi and Shepherd, you can enhance your wine pairing skills and create unforgettable dining experiences. Next time you’re dining out, consider asking the chef for their recommendations to elevate your meal with the perfect wine pairing. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the way we live our lives, from how we interact with others to how we work and travel. One of the most noticeable changes has been the shift towards remote work, with many companies adopting a work-from-home model to keep employees safe and comply with social distancing guidelines.
Remote work has its benefits and challenges, and many employees and employers are still adjusting to this new way of working. While some people have found remote work to be more flexible and convenient, others struggle with feelings of isolation and a lack of work-life balance.
For employers, managing a remote workforce comes with its own set of challenges. Keeping employees engaged and motivated, ensuring productivity, and maintaining effective communication are all crucial aspects of managing a remote team. Employers must also provide the necessary tools and resources for employees to work efficiently from home.
Despite these challenges, many companies are finding that remote work can be successful and even beneficial in some cases. Studies have shown that remote workers are often more productive and have higher job satisfaction compared to their in-office counterparts. Remote work can also help reduce overhead costs for companies, such as office space and utilities.
However, remote work is not without its downsides. Some employees may struggle with feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can impact their mental health and overall well-being. Additionally, remote work can blur the lines between work and personal life, making it difficult for some employees to disconnect and recharge.
As we navigate this new normal of remote work, it’s essential for employers to support their employees and provide the necessary resources for success. This may include offering mental health support, setting clear expectations and goals, and fostering a sense of community and connection among remote team members.
Ultimately, the shift towards remote work is likely here to stay, even after the pandemic subsides. As companies and employees continue to adapt to this new way of working, it’s important to embrace the opportunities and challenges that come with remote work and find ways to make it a sustainable and fulfilling experience for everyone involved.
