A few pointers to consider when pairings Ramen with wines. Ramen dishes can vary widely in flavor, from light and brothy to rich and spicy. Here are some general guidelines for pairing wine with different types of ramen:
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Light and brothy ramen: If your ramen broth is light and delicate, such as a classic Shoyu (soy sauce) or Shio (salt) broth, you'll want to choose a wine that won't overpower the subtle flavors. A crisp and refreshing white wine like Ancora Pinot Grigio from Italy or alternatively, a light-bodied, low-tannin red wine such as a Strange Kompanjie Cinsault or Emiliana Adobe Organic Pinot noir
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Rich and creamy ramen: Creamy and rich ramen varieties, like Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) or Miso ramen, call for wines with a bit more body and flavor. A medium-bodied white wine such as Wild House Chardonnay can complement the creaminess of the broth, while a fruity and slightly spicy red wine like a Cline Cellars Zinfandel or a Pepperwind Syrah can provide a nice contrast and balance to the richness of the dish.
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Spicy ramen: For spicy ramen dishes like Tan Tan Men or Kimchi ramen, you'll want a wine that can cool the heat without being overwhelmed. Off-dry or semi-sweet wines like Summer Berry Rose from Backsberg can help tame the spiciness while providing a touch of residual sweetness. Alternatively, a sparkling wine like le dolci Coline prosecco can also work well to refresh the palate between spicy bites. Try to avoid wiens with high tannins and alcohol as this will only accentuate the chilli/spice
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Vegetarian or vegan ramen: If you're enjoying a vegetarian or vegan ramen with plenty of fresh vegetables and tofu, consider a versatile wine like a dry Wild house Rosé or a light-bodied red wine such as a Strange Kompanjie Cinsault which has a fresh and light flavour profile to complement the savory umami flavors of the dish without overpowering the delicate vegetable components.
