The Odd Couple

When we think of pairings, our thoughts typically turn to wine. Whether you're pairing wine and cheese or finding the perfect Thanksgiving wine (it's barely 7 weeks away; early planning is good!), we've had countless conversations and recommendations that involve wine pairings.

Spirits like Scotch, Irish whiskey and Bourbon are less often thought of as good partners for food. That's an oversight that we hope to help correct. Appetizers, entrees or desserts, it doesn't matter. We'll introduce you today to some excellent pairings.

Smoked salmon pairs quite nicely with Scotch whisky, particularly Auchentoshan 12-year-old and Glengoyne 10-year-old. Both of these are light whiskies with a slightly sweet, citrusy edge which cut through the oily richness of the fish, lifting the flavor. To best compliment strong-tasting smoked salmon, avoid whisky that is heavily sweet, spicy, or smoky itself.

Raw oysters? Consider the light smokiness and maritime character of Talisker 10-year. The whisky complements the mollusk, and it finishes with a peppery kick.

We know that our area has many wonderful Indian restaurants. For spicy fish dishes with a big chili hit - prawn tokri and a masala-coated tilapia, go with Glenmorangie Nectar D'Or, a Highland Single Malt finished in Sauternes casks. The touch of sweetness from the Sauternes casks plays well with the spicy food.

For an Indian meal that's more mainstream, like lamb rogan josh, chicken biryani, aloo Katliyan, or paratha and yogurt, think a little differently. Look for the Tullamore D.E.W. as a sublime partner to those dishes. Tullamore's early fresh fruit leads to a definite light spice followed by some toasted wood which evolves into a delicious vanilla sweetness, which balances the spiciness of those Indian dishes. 

If your preference runs to the smokier side of Islay (Ardbeg, Lagavulin, Laphroaig), click here for some additional thoughts on food pairings.

Babyback ribs are a favorite on the grill or at a local BYO. The tangy-sweet flavors of the ribs and sauce meet their match with the Four Roses Single Barrel, Canal's Family Selection. It's a Bourbon that rewards you with a mellow symphony of rich, spicy flavors along with sweet, fruity aromas and hints of sweet oak and caramel. Finishes soft, smooth and pleasantly long. And if you're tailgating with ribs, pulled pork or chicken in a barbecue sauce, don't forget this bourbon!

Thin-sliced country ham matches with the notes of cinnamon and walnut in Woodford Reserve Bourbon.

Another slightly out-of-the-box pairing is Ardbeg 10-year with sushi. The briny, smoky notes of the Ardbeg compliment the range of flavors on a sushi plate.

Don't miss dessert. Being mindful of Thanksgiving, as we were earlier, consider Glenrothes, a Scotch that is loaded with vanilla and hints of spice. It's an ideal counterpart to a luscious pumpkin pie.