The next time you are ready to settle in with a movie and bowl of freshly popped popcorn, take a second to think about the vino you are sipping on to ensure it is the right match. No matter if you enjoy your popcorn savory, buttery, or sweet and sticky, there's a perfect wine that will truly enhance the experience.

Savory
Savory popcorn offers a delightful twist on the traditional movie snack, elevating the humble kernel with a variety of bold flavors. Infused with seasonings like garlic, parmesan, truffle oil, or even spicy chili, this snack serves as a perfect appetizer or gourmet treat that will tantalize anyone’s taste buds.

There are so many different ways you can take savory popcorn! For example, cheesy jalapeno popcorn. This combo of saltiness and spice is really elevated when you have it with a nice white blend. For this, we would recommend trying the Braganini Mountain Road White Blend or Coastline White Blend. How about truffle salt popcorn? Yum. Try this type of popcorn with a glass of Braganini Reserve Pinot Noir.  

The acidity of dry wines helps to cut through the richness of savory toppings (like cheese, spices, or herbs) on popcorn. This balance prevents the richness from becoming overwhelming. In addition, the subtle flavors found in dry wines, such as herbal, citrus, or mineral notes, can enhance the flavors of savory popcorn. For example, a white wine with notes of lemon or herbs can elevate popcorn seasoned with garlic or parmesan, making the combination more enjoyable. Ultimately, the combination of dry wines with savory popcorn creates a playful and enjoyable contrast, making it an excellent choice for casual gatherings or movie nights.

Buttery
Classic butter popcorn is a beloved snack that evokes the nostalgia of movie nights and cozy gatherings. Its light, fluffy kernels are generously coated with rich, melting butter, creating a flavor that perfectly complements the slight crunch of each bite. 

A classic buttered or air popped popcorn deserves a wine that helps to make it shine. A great option for butter and salt is a delightfully crisp Chardonnay like the Reserve Unoaked Chardonnay.  Alternatively, a Pinot Grigio is a solid choice for air popped popcorn like our Reserve Pinot Grigio or Braganini Reserve Estate Pinot Grigio. 

Dry white wines are a great match for buttered popcorn due to their crisp acidity and light body. The acidity in dry white wines helps to cut through the richness of the butter, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall taste experience. Additionally, the subtle flavors of the wine, such as citrus, green apple, or mineral notes, complement the savory, buttery flavor of the popcorn without overpowering it. This balance allows the popcorn's taste to shine while the wine adds a layer of sophistication.

Sweet
Sweet popcorn is a delightful treat that's enjoyed by people of all ages. It's typically made by coating freshly popped corn with a sugary glaze, caramel, or chocolate, creating a rich and indulgent flavor. Often enhanced with toppings like nuts or sprinkles, sweet popcorn offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of sweetness.

When you go sweet with your popcorn you should go sweet with your wine! We would suggest a Vidal Blanc ice wine if you are going with caramel popcorn. We have some great ones to choose from including our Ice Wine, Ghost Apple Iced Wine, or our Braganini Reserve Harvest Select Late Harvest Vidal Blanc. If you are going the chocolate route, give a sweet red a try like our Sweet Revenge, Late Nights, Michigander, Dare, or Braganini Reserve Petite Pearl. 

Dessert and sweet red wines are crafted to complement the sweetness and richness of desserts, making them an ideal pairing. Their higher sugar content enhances the flavors of sweet treats, while their acidity helps to balance richness, creating a harmonious experience on the palate.

If you want sweet but not overly sweet, we recommend kettle corn paired with a semi-sweet, crisp Riesling like our Braganini Reserve Harvest Select Mountain Road Riesling or Reserve Late Harvest Riesling. 

In conclusion, the delightful combination of popcorn and wine opens a world of culinary creativity that invites us to explore flavors and textures in an entirely new way. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual popcorn lover, experimenting with these delightful duos can lead to unexpected and delightful discoveries. So, the next time you reach for that bowl of popcorn, consider complementing it with a glass of wine; you just might find your new favorite pairing.