Ollie Smith pairs the Loved & Found Viorica, Moldova, 2024 with Pan-fried Cod with Yuzu Butter Sauce for a match that’s all about freshness, balance, and letting citrus flavours shine.
This pairing leans into a simple but powerful idea: echo the dish’s bright citrus notes while using acidity to keep rich butter in check. It’s a classic fish-and-white-wine principle, but with a modern, slightly unexpected twist — exactly the kind of thinking Ollie Smith is known for.
The Wine: Loved & Found Viorica from Moldova
Moldova might not be the first place people think of for aromatic white wines, but Viorica is one of its quiet stars. This indigenous grape is prized for its floral lift and naturally high acidity. The Loved & Found Viorica 2024 is made in a fresh, unoaked style, keeping the wine light on its feet and packed with citrus and blossom aromas.
In the glass, expect lemon peel, grapefruit, white flowers, and a gentle hint of spice. There’s no heaviness here — just clean lines, a lively palate, and a finish that feels refreshing rather than sharp. At £9.50 from Waitrose, it also sits firmly in that sweet spot of being interesting without being intimidating.
Why It Complements the Dish
- Handling the fish: Cod has a firm yet delicate flake. The Viorica’s light structure supports the texture of the fish without overpowering it, letting the cod stay centre stage.
- Cutting the butter: The yuzu butter sauce brings richness. The wine’s natural acidity slices through that fat, keeping the dish tasting fresh from the first bite to the last.
- Echoing citrus and herbs: Yuzu’s sharp citrus character mirrors the wine’s lemon and grapefruit notes, while its floral aromatics quietly complement the herbs in the sauce.
This is a pairing that feels thoughtful rather than showy. If you’re cooking pan-fried cod with yuzu butter sauce, Ollie Smith’s choice of Loved & Found Viorica proves that the right wine doesn’t just sit alongside the food — it actively lifts it.