Peruvian Wining & Dining: La Mar’s Three Perfect Pairings

While pisco sours may come to mind when indulging in Peruvian fare, the complex and flavorful dishes also lend themselves to exquisite, world-class wine pairings. Renowned Wine Director and Certified Sommelier, Joel Arias, of La Mar Cocina Peruana – San Francisco’s premier Peruvian sea-to-table dining destination on the Embarcadero – shares his top wine picks to pair with three of La Mar’s most beloved dishes.

Cebiche California, made of local halibut, sunchoke leche de tigre, choclo, sweet potatoes and artichoke chips

Cebiche California with 2019 Ried Loibenberg Loibner Riesling Smaragd

This fresh, flavorful dish composed of sunchoke leche de tigre, sweet potatoes, choclo, artichoke chips, and the halibut catch of the day, pairs perfectly with the acidic and refreshing elements of this Riesling. Made in Austria on the steep hills of the Wachau region, this blends offers elements of apples, coriander, ginger, and quartzite, perfectly complementing the Cebiche California. 

The traditional Peruvian dish, Lomo Saltado

Pescado a lo Macho with 2019 Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay

This dish combines the smokey aromas of grilled halibut with the delicate spiciness and vibrancy of macho sauce – made with shrimp, squid, and clams – finished with the creaminess of sweet corn pepian. This smoky, rich, and full chardonnay features a vibrant citrus fruit opening leading to a spicy, oaky aroma in the mid palate. The oak influence of this wine makes it the perfect blend to pair with the grilled halibut and sweet corn. Additionally, corn in almost any form is a natural match for Chardonnay’s inherent sweetness. 

Lomo Saltado with 2013 Paolo Conterno Barolo Ginestra

This rich Peruvian style stir-fry beef tenderloin with red onions and tomatoes is plated over French fries and served with a side of rice. A signature plate of Peru, the dish is smoky, tender, zesty, and juicy. This wine is hand-picked and delicately pressed in the heart of Piedmont, Italy. It features notes of balsamic, dry rose petals, red cherries, elegant spice, as well as undertones of barn yard and leather, making it an elegant and warm bodied selection to pair with the Lomo Saltado.

Waterfront patio at La Mar

Feature Photo La Mar Cocina Peruana located at Pier 1 ½