Beyond Beer: A Guide to Pairing Wines with Your Favorite Barbecue Dishes

Are you tired of always pairing your barbecue dishes with beer? If so, it might be time to explore other drink options. Wine can be a fantastic complement to grilled meat and vegetables, and with a little direction, you can select the perfect bottle to take your barbecue to the next level.

Red Wine

When it comes to pairing wine with barbecue, red is the go-to choice. The smoky flavors of grilled meat and the rich sauces typically used in barbecue dishes lend themselves well to full-bodied reds. Here are some popular red wine options:

Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic choice for pairing with barbecue. Its tannins and bold flavors hold up well against hearty barbecue dishes like brisket or ribs.
Syrah/Shiraz: Another strong contender is Syrah, also known as Shiraz. This wine has a spicy flavor profile that pairs well with barbecue sauce, making it an excellent choice for dishes like pulled pork or smoked chicken.
Zinfandel: Zinfandel is a versatile option that pairs well with a range of barbecue dishes. Its bold flavors can stand up to spicy sauces, making it an excellent choice for dishes like spicy ribs or sausages.

White Wine

While red wine is the traditional choice for pairing with barbecue, white wine can also work well, especially when pairing with grilled vegetables or seafood dishes. These are some popular white wine options:

Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp and refreshing wine that pairs well with grilled vegetables. Its citrus and herbal notes can complement the smoky flavors of grilled vegetables and add a bright, refreshing touch to the dish.
Chardonnay: Chardonnay is a more full-bodied option that can work well with grilled seafood dishes, such as shrimp or scallops. Its buttery notes can complement the richness of seafood dishes, while its acidity can help cut through any saltiness.
Riesling: Riesling is a versatile wine that can pair well with a range of barbecue dishes. Its sweetness can complement spicy sauces, while its acidity can help cut through the richness of grilled meats.

Rosé Wine

Rosé wine can be a great choice for those who want to try something different. Its fruity notes can complement the smoky flavors of barbecue dishes, while its lightness can provide balance to heavier dishes. These are some popular rosé wine options:

Grenache: Grenache rosé has a fruity flavor profile that can complement barbecued chicken or grilled vegetables. Its lightness makes it an excellent choice for hot summer days.
Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir rosé is a versatile option that can pair well with a range of barbecue dishes. Its lightness and fruitiness can complement the smoky flavors of grilled meats, while its acidity can help cut through the richness.
Sangria: Sangria is a refreshing option that can be made with red, white or rosé wine. It's perfect for large gatherings or barbecues, and its fruity, citrusy flavors can complement a range of dishes.

Conclusion

While beer is a classic choice for pairing with barbecue, there are plenty of wine options that can take your barbecue to the next level. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there are plenty of wine options that can complement your favorite barbecue dishes. So, why not switch it up and try something new at your next barbecue?