Drink This With That…CHIPS!

January 2026

DRINK THIS WITH THAT — Potato Chips

We thought this would be a fun New Year’s Day post.

The Ultimate Guide to Wine Pairings for Potato Chips

Potato chips, a savory and addictive snack, can be elevated with thoughtful wine pairings. Here’s a quick guide to perfect matches for popular potato chip flavors.

Chips & Wine Pairing Recommendations

Classic Potato Chips

+ Sauvignon Blanc: crisp acidity cuts through richness

+ Pinot Grigio:  citrus notes complement saltiness

+ Sparkling wine: effervescence enhances crunch

Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips

+ Gewürztraminer: spicy and floral notes match onion flavor

+ Riesling: acidity balances creaminess

+ Pinot Gris: rich texture complements sour cream

Barbecue Potato Chips

+ Zinfandel: smoky and fruity flavors match BBQ sauce

+ Syrah/Shiraz: spicy and savory notes complement smokiness

+ Merlot: plum flavors enhance sweetness

Cheddar Cheese Potato Chips

+ Chardonnay: buttery and oaky notes match cheese flavor

+ Grenache-based Rosé: fruity and refreshing

+ Cabernet Sauvignon: tannins balance richness

Hot & Spicy Potato Chips

+ Tempranillo: moderate acidity and tannins tame heat

+ Syrah/Shiraz: spicy and savory notes complement heat

+ Sparkling wine: effervescence cools down palate

Smoky Potato Chips

+ Pinot Noir: smoky and earthy flavors match chip flavor

+ Merlot: enhance sweetness

+ Grenache:  bright notes complement smokiness

Salt & Vinegar Potato Chips

+ Chardonnay

+ Rosé of Pinot Noir

+ Sauvignon Blanc or Sparkling Chenin Blanc

Posted by Marcy Gordon

Marcy Gordon is a freelance wine and travel writer. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including Wine Enthusiast, San Francisco Chronicle, Sonoma Magazine, The California Travel Guide, and Forbes Travel Guide. In 2017 she was awarded a fellowship to the Symposium for Professional Wine Writers. She is the co-host of the award winning Wine Road Podcast.

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