Nothing pairs with a juicy steak quite like a glass of full-bodied red wine. But with so many varietals and vintages to choose from, it can be daunting to select the perfect bottle to complement your sirloin or filet mignon. Fear not, wine lovers! We’ve got some tips to help guide you!
At its simplest, there’s no wrong answer when it comes to deciding the best wine for steak—it all boils down to individual preference. But if you’re looking for inspiration, keep reading: we’ll be exploring the different flavors of red wine that are particularly suited for steaks (not just any ol’ bottle will do!).
With just a touch of guidance and knowledge about different varieties of wines, you can develop an infallible pairing sense that is sure to turn heads at your next barbecue.
What Wine Goes with Steak?
When it comes to pairing wine with steak, the first rule of thumb is to match the intensity of the wine with the boldness of the meat. It’s like finding the perfect life partner – you want someone who can keep up with you.
If you’re indulging in a juicy porterhouse, try pairing it with a full-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon. A tender filet mignon might call for a smoother, lighter red like a Pinot Noir. And if you’re grilling up some flavorful flank steak, a bold Malbec might just be the perfect match.
Also, keep in mind the seasoning of the steak. A spicy rub calls for a Zinfandel, while a classic herb seasoning is complemented by a Merlot.
And finally, consider the fat content. A fattier cut of meat will call for a wine with high acidity to pair with steaks – acidity and tannin will help balance it out and leave you coming back for bite after bite.
Also – don’t forget to take into account your own personal preferences. After all, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to wine and steak! It’s about eating and drinking what you enjoy.
So go ahead and impress your dinner guests with the perfect pairing. Just remember, a good wine and steak pairing is like a good relationship – it’s all about balance.
Suggested: Cabernet Sauvignon Shopping Guide
For all you red wine lovers out there, this guide has all the best Cabernet Sauvignons at every price point — perfect for pairing with steak!
>> Read the post here <<
Cabernet Sauvignon: The King of Red Wines for Steak
A staple for meat lovers, Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied wine that packs a punch. Its robust flavors of black currant, bell pepper, and tobacco provide the perfect complement to a rich, marbled steak.
Look for Cabs from California’s Napa Valley or Chile’s Maipo Valley for a bold, tannic wine that can hold its own against your prime cut.
Syrah/Shiraz: Bold and Spicy
Another bold red, Syrah (known as Shiraz in Australia) boasts notes of blackberry, black pepper, and smoked meat. This medium- to full-bodied wine is a great match for leaner cuts of steak, as its spice and acidity help to cut through the meat’s fat. I personally love this pairing with a steak seasoned with simply salt and pepper to really complement the flavor of the meat.
For a smoky, peppery Shiraz, try one from South Australia’s Barossa Valley.
Malbec: A Bold & Fruity Wine for the Perfect Steak
Originally from France, Malbec has become Argentina’s flagship grape and a popular choice for steak pairings. Its juicy fruit flavors of black cherry, plum, and raspberry make it a great match for tender, flavorful cuts of beef.
Look for Malbecs from Argentina’s Mendoza region, which boasts the perfect balance of fruit and tannins.
Merlot: The Sweet & Supple Choice for a Delicious Steak Dinner
While it might not be the first wine you think of for steak, Merlot can be a delicious pairing for leaner cuts like flank or sirloin. I also love it with a good ribeye steak. Its softer tannins and flavors of cherry, plum, and chocolate create a smooth, mellow pairing that won’t overpower the meat.
Look for Merlots from California’s Sonoma County or Washington’s Columbia Valley for a fruit-forward, approachable wine.
Cabernet Franc: A Spicy, Earthy Wine That Compliments Any Cut of Beef
Often used in blends, Cabernet Franc is a medium- to full-bodied wine that boasts flavors of raspberry, red cherry, and green bell pepper. Its lighter tannins and acidity make it a great complement to grilled or roasted steak.
This also makes it perfect for informal or casual steak meals. There’s no rule that says you can’t enjoy a glass of wine with a philly cheese steak, the trick is to find a wine that will work with the cut and the richness of the sandwich. The pepper notes and acidity of Cabernet Franc can cut through the extra fat of the cheesesteak, while complementing the other flavors. The same applies to other simple steak meals that make use of different cuts.
Look for Cab Francs from California’s Paso Robles or New York’s Finger Lakes region for a fruity, herbaceous wine with a touch of spice.
White Wine for Steak: A Surprisingly Delicious Option
White wine isn’t a typical pairing for red meat, but it’s valid, nonetheless! If you have a white wine drinker in your life, consider pairing your steak with a Chardonnay. This fuller-bodied white wine is surprisingly versatile. Its high acidity has a similar effect to the tannins in red wine when pairing it with steak; it cuts through the fat and leaves your mouth refreshed between bites, ready for more. Chardonnay works well with most steak cuts, but filet mignon and chardonnay make a dream team – think of them as your dynamic duo or power couple.
Conclusion: Wine for Steak
Whether you prefer a bold, tannic Cabernet or a juicy, fruit-forward Malbec, there’s a wine out there to complement your steak perfectly. Remember, there’s no right or wrong pairing – it’s all about personal taste and exploring new flavors. So gather your friends, fire up the grill, and uncork a bottle or two.
Cheers to the perfect steak and wine pairing!