Barbecuing is a convivial, gourmet occasion, ideal for sharing a meal al fresco. To bring out the best in your grilled dishes, the right wine pairing is essential. Whether it's a grilled red wine or a refreshing white, every dish deserves its own perfect match.
Why pair wine with barbecue?
Pairing the right wine with grilled meats transforms a classic barbecue into a memorable culinary experience.
1. Enhancing flavours
The wine complements the flavors of grilled meat, vegetables or fish, balancing the tastes.
2. Bringing freshness
A well-chosen wine refreshes the palate, especially on hot summer days.
3. Create harmony of taste
Successful food and wine pairings offer a sensation of balance between textures and flavors.
The basics of choosing a barbecue wine
1. Match the wine to the intensity of the flavours
- For red meats: Prefer a powerful, tannic grilled red wine.
- For fish or vegetables: Choose light, fruity white or rosé wines.
2. Consider marinades and sauces
Spices or sauces have a major influence on the choice of wine. A spicy marinade goes well with a spicy wine.
3. Focus on versatile wines
Some wines, like rosés or light reds, go well with many types of dishes.
The best food and wine pairings for a barbecue
1. Grilled red meats
Red meats, such as beef or lamb, require robust wines.
- Recommended wines :
- Syrah: Adds spicy, peppery notes.
- Malbec: Offers the perfect intensity for grilled meats.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Its tannins support rich meats.
- Related dishes: Prime rib, marinated steaks.
2. White meats
Grilled chicken or pork, often more delicate, requires softer wines.
- Recommended wines :
- Pinot Noir: Light and fruity, perfect for white meats.
- Rosé de Provence: Refreshing and easy to drink.
- Slightly woody Chardonnay: Pairs well with sweet and savory marinades.
- Related dishes: Chicken kebabs, marinated pork fillets.
3. Fish and seafood
Grilled fish, shrimp or squid call for light, aromatic wines.
- Recommended wines :
- Sauvignon Blanc: Ideal with lemony fish.
- Muscadet: Perfect for seafood.
- Rosé sec: Complements the grilled flavors of fish.
- Related dishes: Grilled salmon, shrimp brochettes.
4. Grilled vegetables and vegetarian dishes
Grilled vegetables pair well with herbaceous or fruity wines.
- Recommended wines :
- Rosé : Light, it goes well with a wide variety of vegetables.
- Chenin Blanc: Its floral, fruity aromas balance vegetarian dishes.
- Beaujolais: Its fruity notes go well with roasted vegetables.
- Related dishes: Grilled eggplant, vegetable brochettes.
5. Sauces and spices
Barbecue sauces, which are often sweet and smoky, require appropriate wines.
- Recommended wines :
- Zinfandel: Its spiciness complements smoky sauces.
- Grenache: Its sweet notes balance spicy marinades.
- Côtes-du-Rhône: Versatile and structured.
- Related dishes: Pork ribs, marinated chicken wings.
Food and wine pairing mistakes to avoid
1. Ignore the intensity of the dishes
A wine that is too light may be overshadowed by powerful flavors, such as those of smoked meats.
2. Serving wine too cool or too hot
Observe operating temperatures:
- Red: 14-16 °C.
- White and rosé: 8-10 °C.
3. Forget guest preferences
Vary the options to suit all tastes, offering reds, whites and rosés.
Current trends in barbecue wine
1. Back to local wines
Many wine lovers prefer regional wines to highlight local terroirs.
2. Interest in natural wines
Grilled red wines produced without additives are gaining in popularity for their authenticity.
3. Exploring forgotten grape varieties
Rare grape varieties such as Gamay and Grenache Blanc offer original options.
Tips for wine tasting during a barbecue
1. Prepare an appropriate tasting
Organize a wine tasting with specific pairings for each dish.
2. Present wines before serving
Provide information on origin, grape variety and characteristics to enrich the experience.
3. Let your guests explore
Encourage them to try different wines with different dishes to discover their preferences.
Pairing red wine with grilled meats
Grilled red wine, such as Malbec or Syrah, remains a must for sublimating red meats. Its tannins support the richness of the dishes, while its spicy aromas perfectly complement smoky flavors.
- Tip: Choose young, lively, fruity wines for a balanced experience.
Conclusion: perfect matches for a successful barbecue
The key to a successful barbecue is a well-thought-out wine and food pairing. Whether it's a grilled red, a fresh white or a fruity rosé, each bottle can enhance your dishes. Take the time to explore these pairings to make your barbecue unforgettable.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also be interested in "The importance of temperature and humidity in wine preservation", which is also available here!
