In this infographic we share a handy guide to pairing wine with BBQ food.

Here’s what we cover:

  • Steak
  • Burgers
  • Sausages
  • BBQ chicken
  • Pork chops
  • Salmon
  • Sardines
  • Halloumi
  • Veggie Skewers

Check out the infographic for more detail.

 

Barbecues are a cherished tradition that brings people together, whether it’s a casual backyard gathering or a more elaborate affair. While the focus is often on the food, choosing the right wine to complement your BBQ dishes can elevate the experience to a new level.

The challenge lies in matching the diverse flavours of grilled meats and veggies with the perfect wine. Here’s a guide to pairing wine with some classic BBQ dishes.

Steak

Steak is a staple at any BBQ, and its rich, savoury flavours demand a robust wine. The cut of the steak and its preparation method can influence the wine choice, but generally, bold reds are a safe bet.

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its full body, high tannins, and dark fruit flavours, Cabernet Sauvignon pairs excellently with a well-seasoned ribeye or sirloin. The wine’s structure complements the steak’s fattiness and enhances its smoky char.
  • Malbec: With its soft tannins and dark berry flavours, Malbec is another great choice, especially for those who prefer a smoother wine. It’s particularly good with leaner cuts like filet mignon, as it doesn’t overpower the delicate flavours.
  • Syrah/Shiraz: Offering a spicy, peppery profile, Syrah or Shiraz works well with steaks that have been seasoned with bold spices or black pepper.

For a lighter, more acidic option, a Sangiovese or Pinot Noir can work well, especially if the steak is served with a tangy or acidic sauce.

Burgers

Burgers, with their juicy, savoury patties and a variety of toppings, offer a versatile canvas for wine pairing. The choice of wine can depend on the type of meat used and the condiments.

  • Zinfandel: With its bold fruit flavours and hints of spice, Zinfandel is an excellent match for beef burgers, especially those topped with smoky or spicy elements like BBQ sauce or jalapeños.
  • Merlot: This wine’s softer tannins and plum flavours make it a good choice for burgers, particularly if you enjoy classic toppings like cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Merlot’s versatility complements both the richness of the meat and the freshness of the toppings.
  • Tempranillo: If your burger features strong flavours like smoked bacon or sharp cheese, Tempranillo can be a good match with its earthy undertones and medium body.

For chicken or turkey burgers, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can offer a refreshing contrast, especially if the burger includes creamy toppings or a citrusy sauce.

Sausages

Sausages come in a myriad of flavours and styles, from spicy chorizo to mild bratwurst. The type of sausage largely dictates the wine pairing.

  • Riesling: A slightly off-dry Riesling pairs beautifully with spicy sausages like chorizo or Andouille. The wine’s sweetness and acidity balance the heat and richness of the sausage.
  • Pinot Noir: This versatile red is a good choice for milder sausages, such as Italian or bratwurst. Its light body and berry notes complement the flavours without overwhelming them.
  • Chianti: With its bright acidity and hints of cherry, Chianti is an excellent match for fennel-flavoured sausages or those served with tomato-based sauces.

For lighter sausages, like chicken or turkey varieties, a Chenin Blanc or Pinot Grigio can provide a crisp, refreshing counterpoint.

BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken, whether grilled or smoked, often features a sweet and tangy sauce that can pose a challenge for wine pairing. The key is to find a wine that can handle both the sweetness and the smoky flavours.

  • Zinfandel: Known for its bold, fruity flavours, Zinfandel pairs well with BBQ chicken, especially if the sauce has a bit of spice. Its robust nature complements the dish’s flavours without being overpowered.
  • Rosé: A dry rosé, with its bright acidity and subtle fruit notes, is an excellent match for BBQ chicken. It’s versatile enough to handle both the sauce and the smoky grilled flavours.
  • Chardonnay: If your BBQ chicken is prepared with a creamy or buttery sauce, a lightly oaked Chardonnay can be a perfect pairing. The wine’s richness complements the creaminess, while its acidity balances the sweetness.

For a more unconventional choice, try a Sparkling Wine. The bubbles help cleanse the palate and can be a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of BBQ chicken.

Pork Chops

Pork chops, with their lean and slightly sweet flavour, pair well with a variety of wines. The preparation method and seasoning can guide the choice.

  • Pinot Noir: With its medium body and red fruit flavours, Pinot Noir is a classic choice for pork chops, especially if they are grilled with a simple herb rub. The wine’s acidity and light tannins complement the meat’s delicate flavour.
  • Chenin Blanc: This versatile white wine, with its balanced acidity and hints of apple and pear, pairs well with pork chops, especially if they are served with a fruit-based sauce or glaze.
  • Grenache: For a bolder option, Grenache offers a rich, fruity profile with a hint of spice, which can complement pork chops prepared with a more robust seasoning or marinade.

If you’re looking for a white wine, consider a Viognier. Its aromatic profile and full body can stand up to more richly flavoured pork dishes.

Salmon

Grilled or smoked salmon offers a rich, oily texture and a distinctive flavour that pairs beautifully with a range of wines.

  • Pinot Noir: One of the best red wine options for salmon, Pinot Noir’s acidity and red fruit flavours complement the fish’s richness without overpowering it. It’s especially good with smoked salmon.
  • Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine, Chardonnay works well with grilled salmon, especially if there’s a creamy sauce or buttery side. The wine’s texture matches the fish’s richness.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: For a fresher, more vibrant option, Sauvignon Blanc’s citrusy notes and high acidity are a great match for salmon, especially when it’s prepared with herbs or citrus.

For a unique pairing, try a Rosé Champagne. The bubbles and slight fruitiness can be a delightful contrast to the salmon’s rich flavour.

Sardines

Sardines, often grilled whole, have a strong, briny flavour that pairs well with certain wines.

  • Albariño: This Spanish white wine, with its bright acidity and citrusy notes, is a perfect match for grilled sardines. It complements the fish’s saltiness and enhances its freshness.
  • Verdicchio: With its minerality and crisp acidity, Verdicchio is another excellent choice. It pairs well with the oily texture of sardines and can handle the strong flavours.
  • Rosé: A dry rosé offers a good balance of acidity and fruitiness, making it a versatile pairing for sardines, especially if they are served with a fresh salad or tomato-based sauce.

A Crisp White Wine like Muscadet can also work well, particularly if the sardines are served with a squeeze of lemon.

Halloumi

Grilled halloumi, with its salty and slightly tangy flavour, is a fantastic vegetarian option at BBQs. The wine pairing can enhance its unique taste.

  • Sauvignon Blanc: The high acidity and herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc complement the saltiness of halloumi and make for a refreshing pairing.
  • Riesling: An off-dry Riesling can balance the saltiness with a hint of sweetness, especially if the halloumi is served with a sweet chutney or fruit.
  • Rosé: A dry rosé offers a good middle ground, providing both acidity and a touch of fruitiness that can enhance the halloumi’s flavour.

For a red wine option, consider a Light Pinot Noir. Its delicate tannins and subtle fruit flavours can complement the halloumi without overwhelming it.

Veggie Skewers

Veggie skewers offer a colourful and healthy option, with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions. The key to pairing wine with veggie skewers is to focus on the dominant flavours and the seasonings used.

  • Chardonnay: A versatile choice, Chardonnay pairs well with a range of vegetables, particularly if there’s a creamy or buttery element, such as a sauce or marinade.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Its bright acidity and green notes complement fresh vegetables, especially if there’s a lot of greenery like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers.
  • Grenache Blanc: This white wine offers a nice balance of fruit and acidity, making it a good match for veggie skewers with a Mediterranean twist, such as those marinated in olive oil and herbs.

For a red wine option, Pinot Noir can be a good choice, especially if the skewers include more savoury or umami-rich vegetables like mushrooms.

Conclusion

Pairing wine with BBQ food is all about finding the right balance between the flavours of the wine and the dish. Whether you’re grilling juicy steaks, smoky sausages, or fresh veggies, there’s a wine that can enhance your meal and delight your guests.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different pairings to discover what works best for you. The perfect pairing can transform a simple BBQ into a gourmet experience, making your summer gatherings even more memorable. Cheers!