Paella & Bordeaux? Why it works (and which wine to pick)

Paella may be one of Spain’s most iconic dishes, but it pairs surprisingly well with Bordeaux wines — especially when the wines come from a family estate just north of Pomerol, like Château Canon Chaigneau.

Whether you go classic seafood, smoky chorizo, or even veggie, the right wine can lift every bite. Here’s why Bordeaux works — and which of our wines to choose.

A dish close to home (and Heart)

We’re lucky to have family in Spain, and we go there several times a year.
Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine is very dear to us, it’s generous, full of flavour, and always meant to be shared.

We’re also big fans of Spanish wines: Rioja, Familia Torres, Las Freses in Dénia, or Vicente Gandía in Valencia, to name a few.

But sometimes, we love to step off the beaten path and bring together two great cultures in one plate and one glass. This pairing, French wine, Spanish dish, may seem surprising, but we think it’s sublime.

A Celebration of layers

Paella offers:

• Sweetness from sautéed peppers and onions

• Umami from tomato and saffron

• Savoury, smoky notes (especially with chorizo or grilled seafood)

• A rich texture from rice cooked in stock or broth

It needs a wine with balance, freshness, and soul, not just power.

Which Canon Chaigneau Wine?

With Seafood (like fideua) or Veggie Paella → Le Blanc 2024

Our Le Blanc, a crisp, elegant white (Sauvignon-led with a touch of Sémillon), cuts through the richness of shellfish or grilled vegetables.
It brings zesty lift, floral notes, and enough texture to stand up to garlicky aioli or saffron.

Perfect with:
Gambas, mussels, peas, lemon zest

With Paella Valenciana (chicken, rabbit, gambas...) → Cuve 8a 2022

Our Cuve 8a, vinified entirely in concrete, has a smooth, juicy profile with ripe red fruit and gentle spice — ideal for pairing with paprika, grilled meat, or slightly smoky dishes.

Its freshness and soft tannins bring out the best in both meat and rice. Serve it slightly chilled in summer.

Final tips for a perfect pairing

• Chill Le Blanc well — around 10–12°C

• Serve Cuve 8a at 15–16°C, especially outdoors

• Add lemon wedges, a simple salad, and crusty bread

• And pour generously — paella is about joy, generosity, and conversation