3 Wines to Pair with Grilled Salmon

Salmon, a luscious fish, pairs well with both richer whites and lighter reds. While fish and oaky wines tend to clash, the flavor of grilled salmon can actually be complemented by lightly oaked wines.

Pinot Gris

In the U.S., Pinot Gris grows well in Oregon. Salmon is a huge part of the Pacific Northwest's food culture, so it's almost no surprise that this pairing works well. The wine's rich texture and notes of pear and stone fruit are great with salmon dishes that have gingery flavors or mustardy glazes. You can also try Pinot Gris if the fish is served with a salad as an accompaniment.

Fruity Rosé

The juicy, melon-y style of rosé that's common in California is a terrific match for many types of grilled foods, and salmon is no exception. Fruity rosés work especially well with salmon dishes that include olives or cooked tomatoes, or with grilled salmon tacos.

Pinot Noir

Oregon Pinot Noir and grilled salmon is a New World classic pairing. The wine's cherry fruit and light spice elements (which often come from being aged in oak) are excellent when the fish is grilled over charcoal or hard wood. Pop open Oregon Pinot Noir when a grilled salmon dish has deeply savory elements such as mushrooms, soy sauce, or bacon.