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Is it time for dinner? Why don’t you go for some steak this evening? But have you ever put a thought into the drink you’re having? We’d suggest you use a strong red wine to serve with steak, such as Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement your steak. Pinot Noir goes well with leaner cuts like filet mignon, while ribeye goes well with Syrah. For the ideal pairing, match the wine to the way the steak is prepared. Let us learn more in-depth about red wine with steak.
Wine & Steak Combination
Do you know what is so good about a wine and steak put together? When wine is paired with steak, the taste characteristics of the steak are enhanced, elevating the dining experience. Napa Valley’s strong red wines, such as Cabernet Franc, provide the perfect balance of acidity and tannin for a savory cut like flank steak or New York strip. The smoothness of Pinot Noir or Merlot complements leaner cuts like filet mignon or top sirloin. Let us look at some of the top-rated wines you can pair up with a steak.
Best Red Wines to Serve with Steak
Here’s a look at some of the steak cuts which go perfectly fine with the red wine.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic choice and one of the best wines to serve with steak. Known for its bold and full-bodied flavor, it pairs exceptionally well with;
- Flavorful cuts like ribeye and New York strip
- Steaks with high marbling
- Grilled or smoked preparations
The high tannin content in Cabernet Sauvignon balances the richness of the steak’s fat, creating a harmonious pairing.
Merlot
Merlot offers a softer, fruitier alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon. It complements leaner cuts of steak, such as;
- Flank steak
- Top sirloin
- Filet mignon
Its lower tannin levels and medium-bodied flavor allow the steak’s delicate flavors to shine through.
Pinot Noir
If you’re serving filet mignon, Pinot Noir is a stellar choice.
- Its light body and earthy undertones pair beautifully with leaner cuts.
- Pinot Noir’s versatility also makes it ideal for steak with mushroom sauces or herb-based marinades.
White Wine with Steak: A Surprising Option
Though red wine is the traditional choice, certain white wines can pair surprisingly well with steak. Look for full-bodied whites with good acidity, such as;
- Chardonnay: Especially when paired with steaks in creamy sauces
- Viognier: Complements grilled steak with lighter seasoning
These wines balance the richness of steak without overwhelming the palate.
Factors to Consider When Pairing Wine and Steak
Before you pair up your wine with steak, take the following factors into consideration.
Acidity and Tannin
- High-tannin wines like Cabernet Sauvignon cut through the richness of fatty steaks.
- Wines with good acidity, such as Cabernet Franc, enhance leaner cuts.
Cooking Method
- Grilled or smoked steaks pair well with bold wines like Syrah or Zinfandel.
- Pan-seared steaks with butter sauces complement lighter reds like Pinot Noir.
Flavor Profiles
- Herb-crusted or spiced steaks go well with wines that match or contrast these flavors.
- Simple salt-and-pepper steaks pair effortlessly with a variety of wines.
Regional Recommendations
You also need to look at some of the regional options from all over the world.
Napa Valley Reds
Red wines from Napa Valley are often bold, complex, and perfect for steak pairings. Look for:
- Full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons
- Rich Merlots with hints of vanilla and cherry
European Wines
European wines like Bordeaux or Rioja offer a balance of acidity and earthiness, ideal for traditional steak preparations.
Final Thoughts
Summing up, the cut, preparation, and preferred flavor all influence the wine to serve with steak. Pinot Noir complements thinner cuts like filet mignon, while robust reds like Cabernet Sauvignon go well with ribeye. Try Merlot or other robust reds with New York strip or flank steak.
In conclusion, red wine is a traditional choice because of its high acidity and tannins, which improve the match. Investigate your alternatives to determine which wine goes best with steak for your next meal.
ENJOY YOUR DELICIOUS STEAK WITH A SIP OF CLASSIC WINE!
