What You Need to Know for Exquisite Grill and Wine Pairings

22.10.24

Share

meat-feature-ribeye

Few dining experiences are as timeless and satisfying as pairing a perfectly grilled dish with the ideal wine. Whether you’re enjoying juicy meats or delicate seafood, the right wine can enhance flavours, bringing out the best in both food and drink. If you’re ready to explore how to create the perfect wine pairings for various grilled dishes, read on now to ensure an unforgettable dining experience!
 

The Science of Wine Pairing with Grilled Food


Before diving into specific pairings, it’s important to understand the basic principles behind matching wine with grilled food. Grilling adds a unique dimension to ingredients, intensifying flavours and adding a smoky, slightly charred touch. Conversely, wine is all about balance — acidity, tannins and sweetness combine to complement or contrast the bold flavours of grilled dishes.
 

When pairing wine with grilled food, aim to complement or contrast the dish's flavour profiles. For example, a rich, fatty cut of meat might be complemented by a bold, tannic red wine, while a lighter, acidic white wine could provide a refreshing contrast to delicate grilled fish. Balancing the intensity of the food and the wine is key to making the most of your dining experience.
 

Wine Pairings for Grilled Meats
 

1. Red Meats


When pairing wine with red meats like steak, lamb or beef ribs, choosing a wine that complements the richness and smoky flavours is essential. Here are a few options:
 

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: A classic choice for grilled red meats, Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold tannins and dark fruit flavours like blackberry and plum enhance the depth of the meat’s flavour. Its structure can accommodate fattier cuts of beef, making it a go-to pairing for steaks and lamb chops.
  • Syrah/Shiraz: Known for its peppery notes and smoky undertones, Syrah (or Shiraz, depending on the region) is a fantastic match for spiced or marinated meats. The wine’s vibrant dark fruit and subtle spice bring out the savoury elements in grilled lamb or pork.
  • Malbec: For those looking for a velvety, easy-drinking red, Malbec is a great choice. Its smooth tannins and hints of chocolate and blackberries complement grilled meats without overpowering them.

2. Poultry


When it comes to chicken or duck, the lighter texture and flavours require a more balanced wine:
 

  • Pinot Noir: With its delicate red fruit flavours and gentle acidity, Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, especially if seasoned with herbs. For richer poultry like duck, Pinot Noir’s earthy notes enhance the dish’s natural gamey flavours.
  • Zinfandel: If the poultry is grilled with a sweet or spicy marinade, Zinfandel’s bold fruit-forward profile, with notes of raspberry and black pepper, makes for a delightful contrast.
  • Grenache: Known for its juicy red fruit flavours and medium body, Grenache is an excellent match for grilled chicken or turkey. Its lower tannins and bright acidity make it a versatile pairing for lean cuts and richer poultry dishes.

Wine Pairings for Grilled Seafood


Seafood on the grill is lighter and more delicate, so pairing the right wine can make all the difference:
 

1. White Fish


For white fish like cod, halibut or snapper, a crisp, refreshing white wine will enhance the clean, salty flavours of the fish:

  • Sauvignon Blanc: Known for its high acidity and citrusy flavours, Sauvignon Blanc is a natural partner for grilled white fish. The wine’s herbaceous notes and bright lemon-lime flavours accentuate the seafood's freshness.
  • Chardonnay: For a richer experience, opt for a lightly oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s buttery texture and hints of vanilla play well with grilled white fish, especially if it’s seasoned with garlic or lemon.
  • Albariño: A lesser-known but excellent option, Albariño is a Spanish white wine with a zesty profile. Its green apple and citrus notes complement the subtle flavours of grilled white fish.

2. Salmon


Grilled salmon has a hearty texture and strong flavour, so it pairs well with a variety of wines:
 

  • Rosé: A dry, crisp rosé complements the slight smokiness of grilled salmon while adding a refreshing contrast with its berry notes.
  • Chardonnay: Salmon’s richness is perfectly balanced by a lightly oaked Chardonnay, which adds complexity without overwhelming the fish’s natural flavours.
  • Pinot Noir: A light red wine like Pinot Noir can also work wonderfully with grilled salmon, thanks to its delicate fruit profile and soft tannins, which complement the fish’s oiliness.

3. Shellfish


For shellfish like shrimp, scallop or lobster, you want a wine that enhances their sweetness without overpowering their natural flavours:
 

  • Chenin Blanc: With its bright acidity and honeyed notes, Chenin Blanc is an excellent choice for grilled shellfish. Its slight sweetness brings out the seafood's caramelised edges.
  • Champagne: Champagne is an excellent match for lobsters and scallops, the bubbles add a refreshing contrast to the rich texture of the seafood.
  • Vermentino: This Mediterranean white wine is perfect for grilled prawns or crabs. Its bright acidity and floral notes highlight the shellfish's sweetness without overpowering the grill's subtle char.

Wine Pairings for Grilled Vegetables


Grilled vegetables offer a smoky, charred flavour that can be complemented by both white and red wines, depending on the preparation:
 

  • Chardonnay: The smooth, creamy texture of a Chardonnay works well with grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini or bell peppers. The wine’s oakiness adds complexity to the dish without overpowering it.
  • Pinot Grigio: For a lighter pairing, Pinot Grigio’s crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavours enhance the earthiness of grilled veggies, making it a refreshing choice.
  • Grenache: If you’re grilling heartier vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms, a medium-bodied red like Grenache offers just the right amount of fruitiness and spice to elevate the dish.
  • Rosé: For a versatile option, try a dry rosé, which pairs well with various grilled vegetables. Its refreshing acidity and light fruit notes complement everything from grilled tomatoes to charred cauliflower.

Tips for an Unforgettable Grill and Wine Pairing Experience
 

  1. Consider the Seasoning: The herbs, spices and marinades you use for grilling can significantly influence the wine pairing. Spicier dishes pair well with fruit-forward wines, while herb-infused or garlicky dishes do best with earthier wines.
  2. Balance the Flavours: Aim to balance the flavours of the dish and the wine. Rich, fatty meats can work well with bold, tannic wines, while lighter dishes like seafood or vegetables may pair better with wines with higher acidity or lighter bodies.
  3. Temperature Matters: Serving temperature can affect how a wine tastes. Whites and rosés should be served chilled, while reds are best at room temperature or slightly cooler, depending on the wine.
  4. Experiment with Sparkling Wines: Don’t hesitate to try sparkling wines with grilled foods. Their bright, light character can cut through the richness of grilled meats and seafood, providing a delightful contrast.
  5. Know Your Guests’ Preferences: While it’s fun to experiment, it's always a good idea to keep your options open for guests who might prefer one type over another.
     

Conclusion


At VUE, guests are invited to indulge in exquisite flavours. Perfectly grilled meats and seafood are complemented by an expertly curated wine list. With an outdoor wine bar, the venue offers an unforgettable dining experience that delightfully marries grilled items and beverage pairings. 
 

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or someone looking to explore new combinations, the pairings at VUE ensure that every meal is an extraordinary journey of taste. Don’t wait, set up your divine pairing now by making a reservation here.