The Best Wines to Pair with Steak – A Meat Lover’s Guide
The Best Wines to Pair with Steak – A Meat Lover’s Guide
There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked steak paired with a wine that enhances its flavours. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? The key is matching tannins, acidity, and body to complement the richness and texture of the steak. Whether you prefer ribeye, sirloin, fillet, or T-bone, here’s the ultimate guide to perfect pairings.
Why Red Wine is the Classic Choice for Steak
Red wine and steak are a perfect match because the tannins in the wine help cut through the richness of the meat, balancing the flavours. Meanwhile, the fat in steak smooths out the tannins, creating a harmonious pairing. While red wine is the go-to choice, some fuller-bodied whites and sparkling wines can also work.
Best Wine Pairings for Different Cuts of Steak
Ribeye – Full-Bodied & Bold Wines
Ribeye is rich, marbled, and intensely flavoured, making it perfect for big, bold red wines with firm tannins.
Best pairings:
• Cabernet Sauvignon – Bold, structured, with dark fruit and oak.
• Syrah/Shiraz – Peppery, smoky, and packed with depth.
• Malbec – Smooth, fruit-forward, and velvety, balancing the fat beautifully.
Sirloin – Medium to Full-Bodied Wines
Sirloin has less marbling than ribeye but is still juicy and flavourful, pairing well with structured yet smooth reds.
Best pairings:
• Merlot – Soft tannins and ripe fruit complement sirloin’s balance of lean and fatty textures.
• Zinfandel – Jammy, spicy, and bold enough to hold its own.
• Tempranillo (Rioja) – Earthy, with hints of cherry and leather.
Fillet – Elegant & Mellow Wines
Fillet steak is lean, tender, and delicate, requiring a wine that enhances without overpowering.
Best pairings:
• Pinot Noir – Light, smooth, and fruit-forward, allowing the fillet’s natural taste to shine.
• Chianti Classico – Bright acidity and soft tannins balance the leanness of fillet.
• Gamay (Beaujolais) – A fresh, fruity option that enhances fillet’s delicate texture.
T-Bone & Porterhouse – A Versatile Pairing
T-bone and porterhouse offer two textures in one – the rich strip steak and the tender fillet, calling for a balanced wine with structure and fruit.
Best pairings:
• Bordeaux Blend – A mix of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot gives depth and finesse.
• Barolo – High acidity and bold tannins enhance the contrast in textures.
• Grenache (GSM Blend) – A great all-rounder that handles both the richness and tenderness.
Unexpected Pairings: White Wine & Steak
While red wine is the traditional go-to, some full-bodied whites and sparkling wines can work with leaner cuts or steak with creamy sauces.
Try these:
• Oaked Chardonnay – Rich and buttery, great with grilled fillet or steak in creamy sauces.
• Champagne/Sparkling Wine – The acidity and bubbles cut through the richness of fatty steaks.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Steak & Wine Pairing
• Match intensity: A bold steak needs a bold wine, while a lighter steak pairs better with an elegant wine.
• Consider the sauce: Peppercorn sauce pairs well with a spicy Shiraz, while Béarnaise sauce suits a rich Chardonnay.
• Rest your wine & steak: Let your wine breathe before serving and allow your steak to rest before eating for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
Pairing wine with steak is an art and a science, and the best choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you love a powerful Cabernet Sauvignon with a ribeye or an elegant Pinot Noir with fillet, the right wine can elevate your steak experience to a whole new level. Try different pairings, experiment with new wines, and enjoy the perfect match.
