Planning a steak dinner? The right wine can make all the difference. It's about finding a balance that enhances both the food and the drink.
Choosing wine for steak doesn't have to be intimidating. Let's look at some great options.
Cabernet Sauvignon: The Classic Choice
Cabernet Sauvignon is often the go-to for steak. This is a popular choice for good reason. It has the structure and tannins to stand up to rich, flavorful cuts.
Think of a Napa Cab with a ribeye. The wine's dark fruit and cedar notes play well with the steak's marbling. A Cabernet from Washington State can also be excellent, often offering a slightly earthier profile.
Bold Bordeaux Blends
Bordeaux blends offer a similar experience to Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines combine Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. This results in complex flavors.
A good Bordeaux blend will have a balance of fruit, earth, and tannins. This makes it a versatile pairing for various steak preparations. Try it with a grilled sirloin or a pan-seared filet.
Syrah/Shiraz: For Peppery Notes
Syrah (or Shiraz, as it's known in Australia) is another fantastic choice. It has a savory character that complements steak beautifully.
Northern Rhône Syrah offers aromas of black pepper, olive, and smoke. These wines pair well with steaks seasoned with herbs and spices. An Australian Shiraz, with its ripe fruit and bold flavors, is great with a barbecue-style steak.
Malbec: A South American Staple
Malbec from Argentina has become incredibly popular. It boasts dark fruit flavors and a smooth texture.
Malbec is particularly good with leaner cuts of steak like flank or skirt steak. Its fruit-forward character balances the meat's savory notes. The wine's softer tannins also make it more approachable.
Zinfandel: When You Want Something Fruity
Zinfandel can be a fun and unexpected pairing for steak. It's known for its jammy fruit and spicy notes.
Look for a Zinfandel that's not too high in alcohol. This will prevent it from overpowering the steak. It works well with steaks that have a slightly sweet glaze or sauce.
Pinot Noir: Lighter Cuts and Sauces
Pinot Noir might not be the first wine you think of with steak. But it can be a great match for certain preparations.
Choose a Pinot Noir with good structure and earthy notes. This can work well with a leaner cut like filet mignon. A mushroom sauce enhances the pairing even further. A Pinot Noir from Burgundy (France) or Oregon (USA) are both great options.
Rosé? Absolutely!
Don't rule out rosé. A dry, full-bodied rosé can be surprisingly good with steak.
Look for a rosé from the Rhône Valley in France or a Spanish rosé made from Garnacha. These wines often have enough structure and acidity to cut through the richness of the meat. Pair with grilled steak salads or lighter steak dishes.
White Wine with Steak? Yes, Really
While red wine is the traditional choice, some white wines can work well with steak. It depends on the preparation.
Consider a rich, oaked Chardonnay with a creamy sauce or a Béarnaise sauce. The wine's buttery texture and acidity can balance the richness of the dish. A dry, full-bodied white blend from the Rhône Valley can also be a great choice.
Think About the Sauce
The sauce you serve with your steak will significantly impact the wine pairing. A rich béarnaise calls for something different than a spicy chimichurri.
For creamy sauces, consider a Chardonnay or a Viognier. For herb-based sauces, a lighter red like Pinot Noir or a dry rosé might be a better choice. Spicy sauces often pair well with fruit-forward wines like Zinfandel or Malbec.
Don't Forget the Sides
The side dishes also play a role in the overall pairing. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables will influence your wine choice.
If you're serving rich sides, choose a wine with good acidity. This will help cut through the richness and cleanse your palate. For lighter sides, a more delicate wine might be appropriate.
Experiment and Find Your Favorite
The best way to find your favorite wine pairing is to experiment. Try different wines with different cuts of steak. See what you enjoy most.
Don't be afraid to step outside of the traditional pairings. You might discover a new favorite. Wine and food pairing is subjective. Trust your own taste buds.
