The Sarawak Pairing
Celebrate Sarawak Day with iconic local dishes & perfectly matched wines
As Sarawakians, our love for food is as deep as the rivers that run through our beautiful land. And what better way to celebrate Sarawak Day than by pairing our iconic local dishes with the world’s most elegant wines? At The Wine Cartel, we believe every great meal deserves a great companion — and we’ve found three perfect matches.
🍜 Sarawak Laksa & Riesling
Why it works:
Sarawak Laksa is bold, spicy, and aromatic — a complex blend of sambal belacan, lemongrass, and coconut milk that delivers a punch of flavour. To tame the heat and complement the spice, a Riesling is the ideal partner.
A good Riesling, especially off-dry ones, has natural acidity and slight sweetness that cools the palate and lifts the herbal, spicy notes of the laksa broth. The wine’s citrus and floral tones enhance the laksa’s tangy lime and fresh coriander — it’s a pairing that dances on the tongue.
Our pick: Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling (Germany) – crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced.
🍜 Kolo Mee & Pinot Noir
Why it works:
Kolo Mee is all about subtlety — springy egg noodles tossed in lard oil, soy sauce, and shallots, with slices of char siew or minced pork. Its umami richness pairs beautifully with a Pinot Noir, a light red wine known for its delicate structure and earthy undertones.
Pinot Noir brings gentle red fruit flavours like cherry and raspberry to the table, which contrast nicely against the savoury, slightly salty base of Kolo Mee. It adds complexity without overpowering the dish, allowing each bite to remain familiar but elevated.
Our pick: Te Mania Reserve Pinot Noir (New Zealand) – bright, smooth, and food-friendly.
🍰 Kek Lapis Sarawak & Moscato
Why it works:
Kek Lapis Sarawak is a labour of love — layered, buttery, and rich, often flavoured with spices, prunes, or pandan. It deserves a wine that’s just as festive. Enter the Moscato, a sweet, lightly sparkling wine with a bouquet of peaches, orange blossoms, and tropical fruits.
Moscato’s low alcohol and honeyed profile makes it an ideal match for this dense, sweet cake. The gentle fizz refreshes the palate between bites, while its fruitiness echoes the richness of the kek lapis without clashing.
Our pick: La Gioiosa Moscato (Italy) – fruity, floral, and a crowd favourite.
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🍷 Final Sip
This Sarawak Day, let’s raise a glass to our heritage, our food, and our people. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or just indulging in your favourites, these wine pairings add a new layer of joy to every bite.
Visit www.thewinecartel.com or drop by our store to pick up your pairing bottles — and taste the best of both worlds.
Selamat Hari Sarawak from The Wine Cartel.