Steak and wine are the perfect combination for a sumptuous meal. However, not all wines pair well with steak. Choosing the right wine to complement your steak can elevate your dining experience. In this article, we will explore the best wines to pair with steak and why they work.
When it comes to pairing wine with a meal, one of the most classic and beloved combinations is steak and red wine. However, with so many different types of red wine available, it may be difficult to determine which one to choose. In this discussion, we will explore the best wine options for pairing with steak and the factors to consider when making a selection.
Best Red Wines to Pair with Steak
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of red wines and the most popular choice for steak lovers. It’s a full-bodied wine that pairs well with the rich, flavorful taste of steak. The tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon help cut through the fat in the meat, making it the perfect complement to a juicy steak.
Merlot
Merlot is another excellent choice for steak. It’s a medium-bodied wine with a smooth taste that pairs well with the tenderness of a well-cooked steak. The low acidity and tannins in Merlot make it a great option for those who prefer a milder wine.
Malbec
Malbec is a bold, full-bodied wine that pairs well with steak. Its deep, dark fruit flavors and high tannins help balance the richness of the meat. Malbec is an excellent option for those who prefer a more robust wine to go with their steak.
Best White Wines to Pair with Steak
While red wine is the traditional choice for steak, white wine can also be a great option. Here are some of the best white wines to pair with steak:
One of the most important things to consider when enjoying steak and wine together is the pairing itself. Not all wines pair well with steak, so it’s essential to consider the right wine to complement your meal. Red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec are the most traditional and popular choices for pairing with steak due to their full-bodied and robust flavors. However, white wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc can also be excellent options, with their buttery, oaky, and refreshing tastes cutting through the fat in the meat. Other bold and full-bodied wines to consider include Zinfandel and Syrah/Shiraz, which can also elevate the flavors in your steak.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a full-bodied white wine that pairs well with steak. Its buttery and oaky flavors complement the richness of the meat. Chardonnay is an excellent option for those who prefer white wine but still want a full-bodied wine that can stand up to the bold flavors of a steak.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, refreshing white wine that pairs well with steak. Its high acidity cuts through the fat in the meat, making it a great complement to a juicy steak. Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent option for those who prefer a lighter wine to go with their steak.
Other Wines to Consider
Zinfandel
Zinfandel is a bold, full-bodied wine that pairs well with steak. Its high alcohol content and bold flavors make it a great complement to a hearty steak. Zinfandel is an excellent option for those who prefer a more robust wine to go with their steak.
Syrah/Shiraz
Syrah/Shiraz is a full-bodied red wine that pairs well with steak. Its bold flavors and high tannins make it a great complement to a juicy steak. Syrah/Shiraz is an excellent option for those who prefer a more full-bodied wine to go with their steak.
FAQs – What wine goes best with steak
What type of wine should I pair with steak?
The type of wine that pairs best with steak depends on the type of steak and how it’s prepared. Generally, full-bodied red wines with high tannins, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, pair well with rich, flavorful cuts of steak like ribeye or New York strip. Leaner cuts of steak like filet mignon pair well with medium-bodied red wines such as Pinot Noir or Merlot which have lower tannin levels.
Should I choose an aged or young wine to pair with steak?
In most cases, a young wine would be a better choice to pair with steak, especially if the steak is grilled or roasted. Younger wines tend to be fruitier and more acidic, which can help cut through the richness of the steak. Aged wines, on the other hand, tend to be smoother and more complex, and may not pair as well with a strongly flavored steak.
Can I pair white wine with steak?
While red wine is the classic pairing with steak, there are some white wines that can work well depending on the seasoning and preparation of the steak. For example, a buttery Chardonnay pairs well with a grilled or pan-seared steak that has been brushed with garlic butter. A crisp, acidic Sauvignon Blanc can also be a good match for a steak with a tangy, citrusy marinade.
Should I choose a domestic or foreign wine to pair with steak?
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing a domestic or foreign wine to pair with steak. It’s more important to choose a wine that matches the flavor profile of the steak and your personal preferences. However, if you’re looking for traditional pairings for steak, wines from Bordeaux or Napa Valley are often recommended.
How do I know if the wine I’ve chosen is a good match for my steak?
One way to gauge whether the wine you’ve chosen is a good match for the steak is to take a sip of the wine and then a bite of the steak. If the flavors complement each other and enhance the taste of both the wine and the steak, it’s a good match. If the flavors clash or one overpowers the other, you may need to try a different wine, or adjust your seasoning or preparation of the steak.