In the April 2010 Issue of FOOD AND WINE magazine there is an article titled "20 Wine Pairings to Try Before You Die." While most of these didn't really surprise me, chardonnay and lobster, sauvignon blanc and white fish, Zinfandel and BBQ ribs, one really got my attention DORITOS AND CALIFORNIA PINOT NOIR.

California pinot noirs usually have a jammy, fruity flavor when compared to other pinot noirs around the world, such as the burgundy from France.

Later in the week I plan on trying this food and wine combination, but it has sparked my curiosity about what other junk food and wines pair well together. According to the Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page book WHAT TO EAT WITH WHAT YOU DRINK classic junk foods do pair well with drinks other then a good beer. Cheese puffs go best with Champagne, but also taste great with pinot noirs, burgundy, chardonnay, and anything highly acidic. Doritos with Champagne and Spicy Doritos with Zinfandel. Twinkies pair well with Asti. Nachos pair well with sparkling wines and Zinfandel. Oreo's and port. Potato chips and Champagne and BBQ potato chips and Zinfandel. Pretzels and white zinfandel. Tortilla chips and Champagne or Sauvignon Blanc. Popcorn and champagne or chardonnay. Also Maynard James Keenan of Tool and Arizona winemaker suggests popcorn with truffle salt on his 2005 Primer Paso Syrah.

Usually I just grab a Smithwick's, Yuengling, or Natty Boh out of the fridge when I'm eating chips and other junk foods, but am looking forward to trying these and other combinations in the near future.