A Glenview Guide to Wine & Beer Pairings + Local Tasting Events

Glenview, Illinois may be known for its leafy neighborhoods and vibrant community, but its food and drink scene is full of bold flavors and approachable pairings too. Whether you’re treating yourself after a stroll through The Glen Town Center or planning a night out with friends, understanding great wine and beer combinations can elevate any meal. This guide offers pairing basics and highlights seasonal events where you can explore these ideas hands-on — Glenview style.

Wine Pairing Fundamentals in Glenview

Wine enhances what’s on your plate when the flavors, weight, and acidity align with the dish’s personality.

Red Wine Matches

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Great with richer, grilled dishes or red meat entrées.

• Merlot: A smooth partner for braised dishes and earthy flavors.

• Syrah/Shiraz: Peppery and bold for heartier fare.

White Wine Insights

• Chardonnay: Rich and creamy, ideal for poultry and cream sauces.

• Sauvignon Blanc: Bright acidity that cuts through seafood and herb-forward dishes.

Sparkling & Rosé

These versatile options refresh the palate and pair beautifully with appetizers, seafood, and lighter courses.

Beer Pairing Basics for Flavor Adventure

Beer offers a wide range of profiles — from crisp and light to deep and malty — that can either balance or complement your meal.

• Pale Ales & IPAs: Their bitterness works wonders with rich or fatty foods.

• Wheat Beers & Pilsners: Refreshing and light, perfect alongside seafood or salads.

• Stouts & Porters: Deep, roasted notes that can stand up to savory mains and even dessert.

Glenview’s Signature Tasting Experiences

Bell’s Brewery Beer Dinner at Wildfire Glenview

Wildfire Glenview hosts seasonal pairing dinners that showcase how food and drink work together, including the Bell’s Brewery Beer Dinner. This multi-course experience features a custom menu, with each dish paired to a Bell’s craft beer selected to enhance flavor and balance. Guests also gain insight into the pairing process from a Bell’s Brewery brand ambassador, making it both an educational and enjoyable evening.

This event offers a hands-on way to explore how hop bitterness, malt sweetness, and carbonation interact with a range of dishes, from seafood to dessert.

Seasonal Pairing Ideas

• Winter: Fuller-bodied red wines and darker beers pair well with roasted meats, braised dishes, and hearty entrées.

• Spring: Crisp white wines and lighter beers complement fresh vegetables, seafood, and lighter preparations.

• Summer: Sparkling wines, rosé, and pilsners are refreshing choices for warm-weather dining.

• Fall: Amber ales, porters, and medium-bodied red wines pair well with seasonal flavors like squash, mushrooms, and roasted poultry.

Bringing It All Together

Wine and beer pairings don’t need to be complicated. Focus on balance, consider the weight and flavor of both the dish and the drink, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Whether you’re attending a curated pairing dinner at Wildfire Glenview or enjoying a meal closer to home, Wildfire Glenview offers plenty of opportunities to explore great combinations and discover new favorites.