The super-host secret

Longing to host your friends but don’t feel like cooking? No worries. You can order in some takeout and spend most of your time in the wine shop picking the perfect bottles.

With this, there’s no mess, no hassle and it allows the wine and conversation to take centre stage. Here’s how to curate your next ‘catered’ affair with secret of wine pairing on every of your ordered take out.

The Chinese Menu: The flavours used in Chinese cooking are five -spice powder, Szechuan pepper, duck sauce, ginger. It’s better to go naturally with Syrahs, which hold up to the sweetness and spice, whether you choose restrained versions from the Rhône Valley or the fruit-forward styles of California. For desserts: Break out the Moscato.

The sweet wine goes amazingly well with those otherwise onedimensional crisps.

The Sushi Menu: Like precut maki rolls, such as spicy tuna, salmon skin and yellowtail, some nigiri, some sashimi. The bright tropical fruit flavours, light floral and spice notes of aromatic whites such as Albariño, Pinot Gris, Riesling and Viognier will do the magic along with seafood. This will hold up to the heat and acidity.

Mexican Menu: The perfect serving wine for guac and salsa are Sauvignon Blanc, Luscious Zinfandels or Malbecs as sure fire bets with tacos, as the smoky notes of chilies will bring out the fruity tones.

Now the super host secret… After your feast, offer scoops of vanilla ice cream topped with a condensed milk syrup that’s available at most grocers. Pair with Tanteo’s tasty chocolate Tequila.

Sounds gross, but it’ll wow your guests. Don’t forget, let the bottle pick your… Pizza Deciding what pie style to order, start with what’s in your wine rack. If you have a Pinot Noir… Order the Margherita- style pizza with pepperoni.

Pinot’s rich fruit and ample acidity pair well with tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella and cured beef spiced with cayenne, paprika and fennel. If you have a Cabernet Franc… Order the veggie combo. The red berry flavour, earthy notes and hints of green pepper make it a clear winner with the ‘healthy’ pizza option