Seafood has its own unique flavors and characteristics that require a special beverage in order to experience the full flavor of your meal.
Traditional pairings like white wine or beer can be boring, and you want something special that will really bring out the flavor of those tasty ocean treats.
So before you head out for some delicious crab legs or scallops, take a few minutes and discover what type of liquor is good with seafood!
I’ll explore different types of liquors so that you can find the one specifically tailored to your favorite seafood. So let’s dive into which spirits are best enjoyed alongside a delicious oceany menu!
30 Best Drink goes Well with any Seafood Menu
Best White wine can serve with Seafood
Rich white wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Riesling are excellent choices for richly flavored fish such as salmon and tuna.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is another great white wine choice for seafood, especially when aging and oak are involved.
This full-bodied white wine offers a creamy texture and complexity that stands up well against bolder flavor profiles like salmon or scallops.
It’s also a great way to add richness to more subtle dishes like crab cakes.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is an Italian white wine that pairs exceptionally well with seafood. This light and crisp varietal boasts bright acidity, a hint of citrus, and subtle notes of stone fruit.
Its delicate flavors make it a great accompaniment to all kinds of seafood dishes, from steamed lobster to ceviche.
Not only does it bring out the savory flavors in the food, but its light body also helps to balance heavier sauces and spicy seasonings.
Pinot Grigio’s versatility makes it a great choice for any summer dinner party or a casual gathering—or just an evening spent indulging in some delicious seafood!
Sauvignon Blanc
One of the best white wines to serve with seafood is Sauvignon Blanc. This crisp and refreshing white wine has a grassy, herbaceous aroma that pairs beautifully with delicate seafood dishes.
Sauvignon Blanc also has high acidity levels, making it the perfect accompaniment to balance out heavier sauces or creamy seafood preparations.
Additionally, its minerality helps bring out the natural flavors of the seafood.
Riesling
Another excellent option for pairing with seafood is a Riesling, which offers an abundance of vibrant citrus notes along with aromatic qualities that help bring out umami flavors in fish and shellfish dishes.
Riesling can range from sweet to dry in style, so when selecting one for pairing, be sure to pick depending on your dish and desired sweetness level at the table.
Rose
Rose wine is a lighter, more subtle flavor compared to other types of wine, which makes it an ideal accompaniment for seafood dishes. Its delicate taste enhances the natural flavors of seafood without overpowering them.
The brightness and acidity of rose wine can help to cut through any richness in richer fish dishes like salmon or trout, and its low alcohol content means you don’t have to worry about over-imbibing.
It’s also a great option for lighter dishes such as ceviche or sushi.
Rose wine pairs nicely with herbs like dill, thyme, and oregano; citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and orange; and vegetables such as tomatoes and mushrooms.
Some recommended varieties include pale rosés from Provence, Grenache rosés from Spain, Pinot Noir rosé from California, or Sangiovese rosé from Italy.
White Zinfandel
White Zinfandel is the perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of seafood dishes. With its light and fruity profile, it pairs especially well with milder fish such as sole, grouper, trout, and halibut.
The bright acidity of White Zinfandel also complements sweet flavors in seafood dishes like crab and scallops that are often prepared with butter or herbs.
The sweetness of the wine helps balance out richer ingredients like bacon or rich sauces. White Zinfandel’s aroma of raspberries, peaches, and apples can also add a new depth of flavor to a dish.
For an optimal taste experience, choose a medium-bodied White Zin with a low alcohol content that does not overpower the delicate flavors of your seafood dish.
Best Red Wines Pair with Seafood
Seafood dishes are one of the best pairings for red wines. The combination of high acidity and fruit flavors in red wines makes them a great match for the variety of seafood flavors.
A bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs nicely with steak-like fish like swordfish or mahi mahi.
Pinot Noir
For lighter, delicate seafood such as scallops, pinot noir is an excellent choice. This light-bodied red offers bright acidity and fruity notes that will bring out the natural sweetness in the dish without overpowering it.
For richer, oilier fish dishes like salmon, a bolder red such as cabernet sauvignon is ideal. This full-bodied wine, with its notes of blackcurrant and tobacco, will stand up to heartier fish dishes without compromising their nuanced flavors.
Italian Sangiovese
For milder fish varieties like cod or sole, try an Italian Sangiovese with notes of tart cherry and warm spices that will enhance their delicate flavor while still providing enough backbone to stand up against mild seasonings.
Zinfandel
When serving spicy seafood dishes, zesty zinfandel is an excellent pairing option. Its deep raspberry and pepper flavors can cut through spiciness while adding complexity to the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Tequila
Tequila is an excellent choice to pair with seafood dishes like ceviche, tacos, and fish tacos. The botanical notes of tequila complement and enhance the flavors of seafood.
Tequila also has a light and refreshing taste that helps to balance out bolder flavors found in many types of seafood.
Additionally, tequila’s versatility allows it to be mixed with a variety of ingredients and flavors, giving you the opportunity to create unique cocktails that pair perfectly with your favorite seafood dishes.
Rum
Rum is an ideal companion for seafood dishes, as its sweet, smoky flavor adds a delightful complexity to many dishes.
The caramel notes of the rum create a beautiful balance with the briny flavors of seafood, such as in a classic dish like shrimp scampi.
To really make this dish sing, try using a dark rum instead of a white spirit. The richer flavor of the dark rum will bring out the complexity and depth of the dish.
Rum can also be a great addition to grilled seafood dishes like cedar plank salmon or fish tacos.
A splash of rum enhances the smoky, earthy flavors of these dishes, making them even more delicious. Adding a bit of rum to the marinade can also help tenderize the fish, making it even more flavorful.
Rum is a great partner for spicy seafood dishes. The sweetness of the spirit helps mellow out spicier flavors in dishes like Caribbean-style jerk salmon or ceviche.
The balance between sweetness and heat creates a unique flavor combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
Vodka
Vodka is one of my favorite drinks to pair with light seafood dishes like raw oysters or sushi even try it with mussels– the refreshing, crisp taste makes you feel amazing.
Vodka also goes well with more flavorful, savory dishes such as grilled salmon or shrimp scampi. Vodka’s neutral flavor allows it to blend seamlessly with the flavors of your favorite seafood recipes.
Whether you’re searching for a light and refreshing cocktail or something a little more robust, vodka can be the perfect addition to any seafood meal.
Besides pairing it with food, vodka can also be used to create delicious cocktails. From classic martinis to playful shots, there are countless ways to enjoy this timeless spirit.
Beer
Beer is a versatile beverage that pairs well with a variety of dishes, particularly seafood. The unique flavor profile of beer works perfectly to complement the delicate flavors of seafood while also providing an enjoyable contrast.
There are countless types of beer available, each one presenting different notes and aromas that can add an extra layer of complexity to the meal.
A crisp Pilsner; this style is slightly sweet and offers a hint of bitterness that complements the brininess of fish or shellfish.
Alternatively, Pale ales have hoppy and malty notes that bring out the subtle sweetness in many seafood dishes.
Try a Belgian Trappist ale – these beers are usually high in alcohol content and feature flavors such as fruit, spice, caramel, or even chocolate.
An oily fish like mackerel pairs well with light beer and dry sherry. For lighter fish like cod or soles, also grilled oysters are best with light beer.
Sparkling Wine and Seafood Pair
Sparkling wine is a great choice for a seafood picnic. Not only does its bubbly texture provide a refreshing contrast to the succulent seafood,
It has subtle flavors of citrus and stone fruits that pair perfectly with many of the dishes often associated with seafood picnics or parties.
Additionally, sparkling wines tend to be lower in alcohol than other types of wine, making them a great option if you plan to spend the day outdoors.
If you are looking for a mid-priced sparkling wine, look for Cava or Prosecco, as they are both excellent choices.
These light and bubbly wines can be paired with all types of seafood dishes, from rich lobster bisque to succulent shrimp scampi.
They also pair well with lighter fare, such as grilled fish or a thirst-quenching ceviche.
While sparkling wines are often associated with celebrations, they can also be enjoyed simply for pleasure.
So, uncork a bottle and let yourself be transported to summer days of picnicking with friends and family.
Champagne
Champagne is an elegant and sophisticated choice to pair with seafood dishes. This light, the bubbly beverage is perfect for any seafood dish.
This sparkling wine has a bright, fruity flavor that adds a delightfully bubbly complexity to steamed mussels and grilled fish alike.
Its dry flavor helps to cut through rich sauces, and its effervescence helps to cleanse any oils or fattiness in the seafood after each bite.
Champagne can also be used to make classic cocktails like the popular French 75.
The combination of lemon, simple syrup, and champagne is a refreshing way to sip on summer days or as an accompaniment to dinner parties. Additionally, when served in flutes, it adds an elegant touch to the table.
With its delicate sweetness and light floral notes, it pairs perfectly with an array of seafood dishes, from crab cakes to oysters.
Make sure to look for Champagne with plenty of acidity and freshness to keep the flavors of the fish in focus.
Prosecco
Pairing Prosecco with seafood is an exquisite experience. The bubbly drink pairs particularly well with succulent shellfish like oysters, clams, and mussels.
Its light body complements the briny flavor of the seafood, while its effervescence refreshes the palate after savoring a bite of seafood.
The bubbles also help to cut through the richness and heaviness of heavier seafood dishes, like lobster bisque or crab cakes.
Prosecco is a great option for pairing with any kind of seafood dish, from sushi to ceviche. Whether you’re arranging a dinner party or just enjoying a meal at home, a glass of Prosecco is the perfect accompaniment to seafood.
For a really special experience, try pairing Prosecco with caviar. The salty flavor of the fish eggs pairs perfectly with the light and crisp notes of a sparkling Prosecco.
When combined together, they create an amazing combination of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Some Non Alcoholic Drinks that go well with Seafood
Seafood has a delicate flavor and can be easily overpowered by strong-tasting drinks.
Non-alcoholic drinks that pair well with seafood include bubbly carbonated water and soda, mineral water, iced tea, chilled cucumber water, fruit juices, lemonade, and smoothies.
For an extra flavor boost, add citrus slices such as lemons, limes, and oranges to plain water.
Best Cocktails are Good With Seafood
Seafood is one of the best foods to pair with a delicious cocktail. Whether you’re looking for something light and bubbly or something more spirit-forward, there is sure to be a perfect combination for any seafood dish.
Here are some of our favorite cocktails to enjoy with shellfish, fish, and other seafood dishes:
The Margarita
Margaritas are a classic, and they go perfectly with shellfish appetizers like ceviche or shrimp cocktail.
The salty rim of the glass is great for cutting through the richness of the seafood.
Plus, the citrus-forward nature of this drink pairs well with many spices used in cooking seafood dishes.
The Moscow Mule
This classic cocktail is a favorite for many occasions, and it pairs great with fish.
The sparkling ginger-beer component of the drink helps to cut through any richness or oiliness in the seafood while still allowing its flavors to shine.
The Gin Fizz
This light and bubbly cocktail are perfect for seafood. The combination of gin, sparkling water, and citrus makes for an invigorating beverage that will complement any dish perfectly.
Plus, it’s low in sugar, so you don’t have to worry about it overpowering the flavors of your seafood.
The Paloma
This Mexican-inspired drink is always a hit with its combination of grapefruit and tequila.
The sweetness of the drink helps to balance out any briny or salty flavors in your seafood dish while still allowing them to stand out.
Plus, it’s a refreshing and light beverage that won’t weigh you down after your meal.
Classic Bloody Mary
A classic Bloody Mary is a refreshing and ideal accompaniment to seafood. The perfect balance between savory and spicy creates an irresistible taste that pairs well with the naturally salty flavors of seafood.
Not only does it make for a delicious pairing, but it’s also incredibly versatile – from appetizers to entrees, this classic cocktail can be enjoyed with virtually any seafood dish.
Whether you choose to enjoy it as a simple cocktail or spruce it up with some extra garnishes, a Bloody Mary is sure to add an air of sophistication and flavor to your meal.
Lavandula
Lavandula is a delicious and unique cocktail that goes perfectly with seafood dishes.
It has an herbaceous aroma composed of rosemary, lavender, and thyme. Its floral notes blend harmoniously with the sweet and salty flavors of fish or shellfish dishes.
This cocktail also has a robust character thanks to its gin base, making it an excellent choice for those looking to imbibe something special.
The fresh citrus and herbal flavors add complexity to this drink, while the dryness of its finish keeps it light and refreshing.
Whether you’re enjoying a seafood dinner or just having drinks with friends, Lavandula is sure to be a hit!
Old Fashioned
Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes. Its smooth, slightly sweet flavor complements the delicate taste of fish, shrimp, and other seafood.
The combination of whiskey, bitters, and sugar makes Old Fashioned the perfect accompaniment for savory seafood dishes.
Adding an orange twist as garnish brings out the citrus notes in the drink and adds another layer of flavor to the meal.
Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner or hosting an intimate gathering, Old Fashioned is sure to impress your guests and elevate their seafood dining experience.
So pour yourself a glass and get ready to enjoy some delicious seafood with a side of the classic cocktail.
Sangria
Sangria is one of the popular choices when it comes to seafood and is one of the most favored drinks enjoyed during the summer months.
This classic Spanish-inspired drink combines red or white wine, brandy, orange juice, and chopped fruit such as peaches and apples. It has a bright, festive taste.
Sangria also makes a great pairing for brunch dishes like omelets and pancakes.
This light and refreshing beverage are perfect for sipping on a lazy Sunday morning while enjoying some delicious breakfast food.
For an exciting twist on the traditional recipe, add sparkling wine or club soda to the mix. You can also experiment with different types of fruit, such as pineapple or mango, to give your Sangria a unique flavor.
Make a big batch ahead of time and let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.
Add fresh fruit slices like oranges and limes to the pitcher for extra color and flavor. For a special touch, add seasonal berries like raspberries or blueberries to your Sangria. Sangria is sure to bring a touch of sunshine to any meal.
Manhattan
Manhattan is a wonderful cocktail for seafood lovers, as the city boasts an array of renowned seafood restaurants that serve up some of the freshest and most delicious fares.
From classic fish and chips to sushi, chowder, and more, there are innumerable options to tantalize your taste buds.
In addition, many waterfront eateries provide stunning views of the New York skyline, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience.
For an all-you-can-eat seafood feast, head to one of Manhattan’s renowned seafood buffets and enjoy a wide array of dishes prepared fresh daily.
Negroni
Negroni, a classic Italian cocktail, is made with equal parts; gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth – creating a complex yet balanced flavor profile that pairs perfectly with all types of fish dishes.
This Italian cocktail will bring out the best in your favorite dishes while providing an enjoyable and social dining experience.
Bonus: Negroni is also great for getting creative in the kitchen. Try using its herbal, bittersweet flavor in marinades and sauces for an extra boost of flavor.
Or use it with grilled fish or shellfish for a flavor-packed dinner. Use Negroni in marinades, sauces, and more for a flavor-packed dinner you won’t soon forget.
It’s sure to become your new favorite pairing for any seafood dinner! Plus, it’s easy to make and can be enjoyed with friends or family.
Mai Tai
Mai Tai most trendy Cocktail to have with seafood. Mai Tai is a tropical, refreshing drink that can be served with various seafood dishes.
It features a blend of flavors, including orange juice, lime juice, and almond-flavored orgeat syrup.
The Mai Tai is a vibrant reddish-orange hue that looks as good as it tastes.
It has become increasingly famous in the United States in recent years and is served in many bars, restaurants, and tiki bars.
To make a Mai Tai, take 1 1/2 ounces of dark rum and combine it with 3/4 ounce orange curaçao, 3/4 ounce orgeat syrup, and 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice.
Shake all ingredients thoroughly with ice and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange and lime wedge or half of a pineapple.
Enjoy your Mai Tai with grilled seafood, tacos, or burgers for a flavorful experience! For an extra kick, you can add an ounce of light rum to the drink.
Whiskey Sour
Last but not least- have Whiskey Sour to enjoy seafood. Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that pairs perfectly with seafood.
Its combination of whiskey, citrus juice, and sugar makes it tart yet sweet, a perfect complement to the umami flavors of seafood.
The drink also has a subtle smokiness that’s reminiscent of the flavor of grilled fish or shellfish. Plus, the ample whiskey content gives it a comforting warmth that can make your meal feel more luxurious.
Whether you’re enjoying a seafood feast or just want to add some sophistication to your usual happy hour, the Whiskey Sour is an excellent choice.
Serve it in a rocks glass with lots of ice for maximum refreshment! Cheers!
Bonus Tips: More than just a delicious accompaniment to your seafood dinner, the Whiskey Sour is also an ideal sipping beverage.
Its sweet-tart flavor profile and mellow smokiness make it a great after-dinner drink or an excellent choice for any occasion.
Add in some seasonal ingredients like cranberry or apple juice for a seasonal twist.
Top it with a sprig of mint for a fresh finish, and you have the perfect way to end your meal or start off a night on the town! You can’t go wrong with this classic cocktail.
TakeAway Best Liquor is good with Seafood!
When pairing alcoholic drinks with seafood dishes, consider whether the dish is light or heavy.
Light seafood dishes such as fish and shellfish are best paired with lighter drinks like white wine and champagne or lighter beers such as a pilsner or wheat beer.
For heavier dishes-bolder fish such as salmon or tuna. , opt for richer drinks such as red wine, sake, or heavier ales.
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative, try bubbly carbonated water and soda, mineral water, iced tea, chilled cucumber water, fruit juices, smoothies, sparkling juice, or lemonade.
It pairs well with both light and heavy seafood dishes and adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. These drinks complement the flavors in seafood dishes while not overpowering them.
When selecting liquor to pair with seafood dishes, consider the flavors in each ingredient.
For example, a sweet white wine will pair nicely with seared scallops, while a dry white or rosé would work better with shrimp.
Similarly, a light beer might be perfect to go along with some grilled salmon, while a heavier dark ale could be the ideal accompaniment for fish and chips.
