Food & wine pairing: Rougail Saucisse

Sausage rougail, a traditional dish from Reunion Island, is a celebration of exotic, spicy flavors. Smoked sausages add depth of flavor, while tomatoes, onions and spices like chili, ginger and turmeric add an extra dimension to the dish. The result is a delicious, comforting blend that captivates the senses.

To choose the perfect wine to accompany sausage rougail, it's important to consider several factors:

The level of heat: Rougail saucisse can be more or less spicy depending on the amount of chilli used. Choose a wine that can balance the heat of the dish without overpowering it.

The dominant flavors.

Dominant flavors: Smoked sausages bring a richness of flavor, while tomatoes and spices add a touch of acidity and complexity. Look for a wine that can complement these different notes while bringing its own aromatic palette.

The texture of the dish: Rougail saucisse is often served with rice or bread, which can influence the choice of wine. Opt for a wine that offers a nice texture on the palate and matches the accompaniments of the dish.

The texture of the dish: Rougail saucisse is often served with rice or bread, which can influence the choice of wine.

Here are some wine and sausage rougail pairing suggestions to guide you in your choice:

Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge: A red Côtes-du-Rhône, with its aromas of red fruits, spices and garrigue, offers a great complement to the rich, spicy flavors of the rougail saucisse. Its supple tannins and lingering finish make it an ideal choice for this comforting dish.

Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre from Languedoc: An organic wine made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, offers beautiful structure and a complex aromatic palette that blends perfectly with the richness of rougail saucisse. Its notes of black fruit, spice and licorice add extra depth to the dish. Try for example the Clos des Immortelles du Mas de la Seranne on this dish.

Côtes-de-Provence Rosé: A fresh, fruity rosé from the Provence region, with its red fruit and citrus aromas, offers a lovely freshness and liveliness that balances the heat of the dish. Its lightness on the palate makes it an ideal companion for the spicy flavors of sausage rougail.