Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a late-night craving for Taco Bell, yearning for a way to elevate your fast food experience? Well, look no further because I recently stumbled upon an exclusive interview with Vanessa Price, a sommelier, author, and the mastermind behind Mavericks Montauk restaurant. In this conversation with Tasting Table, she shared her insights on pairing fine wines with fast food items like Taco Bell and fries.

Price believes that each item on the Taco Bell menu calls for a unique wine pairing. The combination of sauce, cheese, and seasoning can greatly influence the wine that will best complement the dish. She revealed her personal favorite from the Taco Bell menu – the Mexican pizza. Price went on to recommend pairing this iconic fast food item with a red wine from the Douro Valley in Portugal.

Now, you may be wondering why she chose a Portuguese wine for a Mexican pizza. Well, while the Douro Valley is famous for its sweet, fortified ports, there is also a growing trend towards producing dry, still wines from the same grape varietals. These wines possess a delightful combination of plushness, earthiness, and a touch of spice – the perfect accompaniment for the Mexican pizza and the Diablo sauce that Price loves to slather on top.

As I read her interview, memories of my own Taco Bell experiences came flooding back. It turns out that the Mexican pizza holds a special place in Price’s heart as well. She reminisced about her family often opting for the bean burrito and chili cheese family meal special from Taco Bell during her childhood. And if her parents were feeling particularly indulgent, they would add a Mexican pizza to their order. To this day, she sees it as a delightful treat and relishes the occasional indulgence.

Drawing inspiration from her adventurous combination of Mexican pizza, Diablo sauce, and wine, Price has incorporated unconventional pairings into her new culinary venture, Mavericks Montauk. Since its opening in May, the restaurant has surprised and delighted customers with unexpected flavor combinations that mirror her Taco Bell experience.

So, the next time you find yourself craving Taco Bell, why not take it up a notch? Add a touch of gourmet to your meal by perusing your wine collection or stopping by the wine aisle at your local store. Once you’ve secured your Mexican pizza – and don’t forget to grab plenty of Diablo sauce – pair it with a glass of red wine from the Douro Valley. Immerse yourself in a gastronomic journey and savor the experience responsibly.

For more tantalizing food and wine pairings, check out the original article on Tasting Table. Whether it’s a fast food craving or a fine dining experience, there are endless possibilities to elevate your taste buds to new heights.