WHAT WINE TO DRINK WITH RABBIT?

Rabbit is a firm and flavorful meat that is essential to French gastronomy.

Whether it’s rabbit with prunes, rabbit with mustard, or hunter’s rabbit, there are countless ways to prepare this dish. So, which wine should you choose to accompany a rabbit dish? In this guide, we’ll explore the types of wines and appellations to consider for creating the perfect food and wine pairing based on your rabbit recipe.

What Wine to Drink with Rabbit?

Prepared in many different ways, rabbit is a classic of French cuisine. Although it is a mammal, rabbit is classified as white meat and is often treated in cooking as poultry (or game for wild rabbit). Despite its popularity being diminished among some restaurateurs due to its numerous small bones, rabbit is highly appreciated in family cooking for its tasty and firm flesh. So, what is the ideal wine for achieving the best food and wine pairings with rabbit? Well, it all depends on the recipe!

Due to its delicate white meat, it is natural to initially lean towards a dry white wine. This is especially true for oven-roasted rabbit, breaded rabbit, or rabbit with mustard. In these cases, opt for a full-bodied dry white wine from Burgundy or the Rhône Valley. However, if you are dealing with wild rabbit or one cooked in red wine, such as hunter's rabbit, you should choose a fruity red wine with soft tannins, like a Pinot Noir from Burgundy or Alsace, or a wine from the Loire or Beaujolais.

The Best Food and Wine Pairings with Rabbit

For a food and wine pairing with cider-braised rabbit or rabbit in cream with mushrooms, try a bottle from an AOC Givry 1er Cru or AOC Saint-Joseph domain. These opulent, full-bodied white wines, with aromas of white flowers, white fruits, and butter, offer a creamy mouthfeel and a slight liveliness that elevates these comforting recipes.

If you go for hunter's rabbit with red wine sauce or rabbit with prunes, look for a red wine from an AOC Morgon domain. This Beaujolais red, with notes of cherry, licorice, and sweet spices, along with velvety tannins, is ideal for accompanying rabbit without overpowering its flavor.

Finally, if you’re seeking a wine that will pair wonderfully with mustard rabbit, you have options: either a crisp white wine from Burgundy, like an AOC Chablis, or a red wine from the Loire, such as a Chinon or Bourgueil. The white wine will contrast with the acidity of the mustard, while a red wine made from Cabernet Franc will add an herbal note to the overall experience.

Feeling a sudden craving for mustard rabbit? We have the perfect wine to complement your meal! At Avenue des Vins, we offer numerous cuvées sourced directly from the château or estate of your choice. Explore our wide selection of red, white, or rosé wines to accompany your rabbit recipe or any other dish you desire. Whether it’s Saint-Joseph white, Saint-Péray, Morgon, Rully, or red Burgundy, enjoy our best appellations in white, red, rosé, and champagne with the best value for money delivered to your home.