Food Pairing Guide: Which Red Wine Goes Best with Steak, Pasta and BBQ?

As the sun sets on another beautiful day in McLaren Vale, the team at McLaren Vale Cellars is excited to share our expertise on the perfect red wine pairings for some of your favorite meals. Whether you're firing up the grill for a juicy steak, tossing together a hearty pasta dish, or gathering friends for a backyard BBQ, the right red wine can elevate the entire dining experience.

At McLaren Vale Cellars, we pride ourselves on curating a diverse selection of premium local wines that showcase the exceptional terroir and winemaking talent of South Australia's renowned McLaren Vale region. From bold Cabernet Sauvignons to smooth Shiraz, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through the perfect red wine pairing for any occasion.

Steak and Red Wine: A Classic Combination

When it comes to pairing red wine with steak, the options are plentiful, but a few varietals truly shine. For a classic pairing, we recommend exploring the robust flavors of a McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine's firm tannins and notes of blackberry, cassis, and tobacco complement the rich, savory character of a grilled or pan-seared steak.

Another excellent choice is a McLaren Vale Shiraz. The wine's full-bodied structure and flavors of ripe plum, black pepper, and smoky oak provide a delightful contrast to the tender, juicy texture of the steak. The Shiraz's bold personality can stand up to the bold, beefy flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious dining experience.

For those who prefer a slightly lighter touch, a McLaren Vale Merlot can be a fantastic pairing. The wine's softer tannins and notes of dark chocolate, cherry, and vanilla provide a smooth, elegant counterpoint to the steak, making for a more approachable and versatile pairing.

Pasta and Red Wine: A Match Made in Heaven

When it comes to pairing red wine with pasta, the options are endless, as the wide variety of sauces and ingredients can influence the ideal wine choice. However, a few red wine varietals consistently shine when paired with pasta dishes.

For a classic Italian-inspired pasta dish, such as a hearty Bolognese or a rich, creamy carbonara, a McLaren Vale Sangiovese is an excellent choice. The wine's bright acidity, medium body, and flavors of tart cherry, dried herbs, and earthy notes complement the robust flavors of the pasta sauce, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing.

If you're in the mood for a more robust pasta dish, such as a braised short rib ragu or a spicy arrabbiata, a McLaren Vale Shiraz is a fantastic option. The wine's full-bodied structure and bold flavors of ripe plum, black pepper, and smoky oak can stand up to the bold, intense flavors of the pasta, creating a dynamic and flavorful dining experience.

For a more delicate pasta dish, such as a simple tomato and basil or a creamy mushroom sauce, a McLaren Vale Pinot Noir can be a delightful choice. The wine's lighter body, bright acidity, and delicate red fruit flavors provide a refreshing counterpoint to the pasta, allowing the nuanced flavors of the dish to shine.

Backyard BBQ and Red Wine: A Winning Combination

As the weather warms and the grill comes out, it's time to start thinking about the perfect red wine pairings for your backyard BBQ. Whether you're grilling up juicy burgers, tender ribs, or flavorful chicken, the right red wine can elevate the entire dining experience.

For a classic backyard BBQ, a McLaren Vale Shiraz is a fantastic choice. The wine's bold, full-bodied character and flavors of ripe plum, black pepper, and smoky oak can stand up to the bold, charred flavors of grilled meats, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing.

If you're in the mood for something a bit lighter, a McLaren Vale Grenache can be a delightful option. The wine's medium body, bright acidity, and flavors of red berries, spice, and subtle oak provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of the BBQ, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice.

For those who prefer a more elegant and refined pairing, a McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon can be a fantastic choice. The wine's firm tannins, notes of blackberry, cassis, and tobacco, and full-bodied structure can complement the bold, smoky flavors of the BBQ, creating a sophisticated and memorable dining experience.

No matter which red wine you choose, the team at McLaren Vale Cellars is here to help you discover the perfect pairing for your next steak, pasta, or backyard BBQ. Stop by our shop or give us a call to explore our curated selection of premium local wines and let us help you elevate your dining experience.

Conclusion

At McLaren Vale Cellars, we believe that the right red wine can transform a meal from good to great. Whether you're enjoying a juicy steak, a hearty pasta dish, or a backyard BBQ, our expert team is here to guide you through the perfect red wine pairing to elevate your dining experience.

From bold and robust Cabernet Sauvignons to smooth and elegant Merlots, and everything in between, our curated selection of premium local wines from the renowned McLaren Vale region offers something for every palate. Stop by our shop or give us a call to explore our selection and let us help you discover your new favorite red wine pairing.

Happy sipping and bon appétit!