From langoustines landed in Peterhead to hand-dived scallops from Shetland, Scotland’s North East is home to some of the finest seafood in Europe. Whether you’re running a coastal restaurant or curating a wine list for a city bistro, pairing the right wines with local seafood can elevate your menu—and your margins.
Here are five trade-friendly wines we recommend for seafood-led menus across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
1. Picpoul de Pinet
Bright, saline, and made for shellfish
This Southern French white is a go-to for oysters, mussels, and anything served with a squeeze of lemon. Its crisp acidity and subtle salinity make it a natural match for langoustines, crab, and even classic fish and chips.
Try it with: Grilled langoustine, lemon-dressed crab, or battered haddock.
2. Albariño (Rías Baixas, Spain)
Zesty, aromatic, and seafood-savvy
Albariño is gaining traction on Scottish wine lists for good reason. Its citrusy lift and stone fruit character pair beautifully with scallops, monkfish, and ceviche-style starters. It’s also a great by-the-glass option for seafood-led tasting menus.
Try it with: Pan-seared scallops, monkfish tail, or seafood platters.
3. Chablis (Burgundy, France)
Elegant, mineral, and always in style
A classic for a reason. Unoaked Chablis brings freshness and finesse to richer seafood dishes, think lobster, creamy mussel sauces, or smoked salmon starters. It’s a premium choice that performs well on both à la carte and set menus.
Try it with: Lobster thermidor, smoked salmon, or creamy mussel linguine.
4. English Sparkling Wine
Bright, celebratory, and increasingly local
With acidity to cut through fried or buttery dishes, English fizz is a brilliant match for seafood canapés, fish goujons, or even Cullen skink. It’s also a great upsell for special occasions or tasting flights.
Try it with: Fishcakes, oysters, or smoked haddock starters.
5. Pinot Noir (Light-bodied, chilled)
Yes, red – with the right dish
For richer seafood like salmon or tomato-based fish stews, a light, chilled Pinot Noir can be a surprising and successful pairing. Look for low-oak styles from Burgundy or New Zealand.
Try it with: Grilled salmon, bouillabaisse, or seafood risotto.
Looking to refresh your wine list for the season?
We supply trade-only wines across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, with curated support for pairing, pricing, and delivery. Get in touch to discuss.