The Eastern Mediterranean is a region steeped in rich culinary and winemaking history, boasting an inspiring tapestry of flavours and aromas that evoke visions of sun-soaked vineyards, bustling markets, and centuries-old traditions. At CERU, we celebrate this vibrant heritage through our carefully crafted fusion dishes, which pay homage to the culinary mastery of the region while introducing subtle contemporary influences that elevate our guests' dining experience.

Integral to the art of Eastern Mediterranean fusion cuisine is the pairing of our enticing dishes with local wines that reflect the diversity and richness of the terroir. By curating a selection of distinctive Eastern Mediterranean wine varietals, we seek to enhance the flavours of our culinary creations and provide our guests with a captivating journey through the fascinating world of regional wine pairings.

In this article, we venture into the enchanting realm of Eastern Mediterranean wines, unveiling the hidden gems that grace our extensive wine list and offering insights on how best to pair them with the distinctive, palate-pleasing dishes that await you at CERU. Whether you're a connoisseur or simply eager to broaden your horizons in the world of wine, allow us to guide you in discovering the perfect accompaniments to our Eastern Mediterranean fusion cuisine, and prepare to be enthralled by the harmonious symphony of flavours that awaits.

Discovering Eastern Mediterranean Wine Varietals

When it comes to Eastern Mediterranean wine pairings, there is an abundance of unique, flavourful, and expressive varietals to consider. This region — encompassing Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, and Cyprus, among others — is home to an array of indigenous grape varieties, many of which have been cultivated and cherished for millennia. 

Keen on showcasing the diversity and allure of Eastern Mediterranean wines, our wine experts at CERU have handpicked a selection of bottles that capture the essence of the region and complement our exquisite fusion dishes.

1. Assyrtiko: Synonymous with the Greek island of Santorini but originally discovered by the Phoenicians in what is now Lebanon, Assyrtiko is a versatile white grape known for its refreshing acidity and mineral undertones. Its bold character makes it an excellent companion to seafood, citrusy salads, and robustly flavoured dishes.

2. Xinomavro: Hailing from northern Greece, Xinomavro is a complex red grape variety with a rich tannin structure and an alluring blend of red fruit, floral, and earthy notes. This age-worthy wine pairs delightfully with roasted or grilled meats, tomato-based dishes, and hearty vegetable stews.

3. Narince: This elegant Turkish white grape offers a delicate balance of fruity, floral, and spicy notes and is often compared to French Chardonnay. Its refined flavour profile allows it to complement a wide range of dishes, from flaky grilled fish and herbed rice to zesty mezze platters and earthy mushroom dishes.

4. Maratheftiko: An indigenous red variety from Cyprus, renowned for its rich and velvety texture, bold fruit flavours, and hint of spice. It pairs perfectly with spiced and herb-infused meat dishes, and stands up wonderfully to the bold flavours of Eastern Mediterranean fusion cuisine.

Pairing Eastern Mediterranean Wines with Fusion Dishes

To create the ultimate Eastern Mediterranean dining experience at CERU, our team of wine experts collaborates closely with our talented chefs, ensuring that each dish is paired with a wine that further enhances its flavours, aromas, and textures. Here, we offer some guidance on ideal wine pairings for a diverse array of Eastern Mediterranean fusion dishes.

1. Mezze Magic: Pairing Wine with Our Cold and Hot Mezze Options

Featuring an assortment of small plates designed to be shared, our mezze menu boasts an irresistible medley of flavours and ingredients. For the refreshing citrus and herb-infused offerings, a crisp and mineral-laden Assyrtiko is an excellent choice, while a seductive and fruit-forward Narince would superbly complement our earthy, mushroom-based plates.

2. Succulent Seafood: Elevating the Flavours of Our Coastal Creations

Capturing the essence of Eastern Mediterranean coastal cuisine, CERU offers a range of tantalising seafood dishes. For grilled fish and seafood selections, a bright and fragrant Merwah from Lebanon will elevate the delicate flavours, while a fuller-bodied, Voskehat from Armenia would be an ideal choice for richer, creamy seafood dishes.

3. Meaty Delights: Rich Reds to Accentuate Our Hearty Meat Dishes

Our menu boasts an array of succulent, spice-infused meat dishes that pair wonderfully with the bold and expressive red wines of the Eastern Mediterranean. For grilled and slow-cooked meat selections, a robust and structured Xinomavro or a velvety Maratheftiko will add depth to the dining experience.

4. Vegetarian and Vegan Indulgences: Enlightening Pairings for Plant-Based Plates

Celebrating the diverse and colourful world of plant-based cuisine, our vegetarian and vegan dishes showcase the vibrancy of Eastern Mediterranean ingredients. A crisp, citrus-driven Greek Assyrtiko will wonderfully accompany zesty and herbaceous plates, whereas a floral and spicy Narince will enhance the earthy flavours of mushroom or pulse-based dishes.

A Toast to Eastern Mediterranean Fusion Cuisine at CERU

The marriage of Eastern Mediterranean fusion cuisine and regional wine pairings at CERU is an adventure that will undoubtedly delight and surprise your palate. Our dedication to selecting the perfect wine varietals to accompany our flavourful and innovative dishes ensures an unparalleled dining experience that honours the rich culinary heritage of the region while introducing contemporary nuances that elevate each plate.

Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or just embarking on your journey into the world of Eastern Mediterranean wine, explore our carefully curated selections at CERU, and immerse yourself in the captivating dance of flavours and aromas that define our unique fusion dining experience.