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Whether planning for a daytime celebration or a soiree with friends and family, any get-together seems incomplete without the classic combination of barbecued food and wine. No matter how old-school it may sound, nothing can beat the idea of a backyard BBQ party.
Pairing barbecue with wine is yet another adventure - fun, though a bit complex. Here's your go-to tip by the famous restaurateur Danny Meyer "Tannin goes with barbecue, whether in the form of iced tea or red wine...". However, with a wide range of reds available in the market, it might be difficult to pick one. In this blog post, we'd be listing 5 red wines that pair exceptionally with BBQ.
Shiraz
Also known as Syrah in other parts of the world, Australian Shiraz (both still and sparkling) is considered to be the best by international wine critics. It is generally a full-bodied wine revealing signature flavors of blackberry and sweet tobacco - a perfect match for barbecued meats served with smoky/sweet sauce. You may also relish it with barbecued brisket, juicy lamb cutlets and roasted vegetables. Bold, warm-climate Shiraz from regions like McLaren Vale pairs well with the intense flavors of slow-roasted BBQ pork. On the other hand, a young and fruity Shiraz can be savored with BBQ ribs.
Cabernet Sauvignon
A full-bodied rich red varietal, Cab Sav typically flaunts an impressive texture. Plentiful acidity and tannin on the palate pair well with meaty dishes accompanied by rich sauces. Flavors of blackberry, plums and chocolate make an excellent match for blue cheese burgers, and barbecued ribs or lamb. You may also go for the classic combo of filet mignon and Cab Sav, especially in the case of young wine (It showcases bitter flavors and hence can be paired with slightly bitter food like grilled steak).
Malbec
Often described as big, bold and spicy by wine connoisseurs, Malbec is another red wine variety that features softer tannin as compared to Cabernet Sauvignon. As a result, this red pairs exceptionally with lean meats. Some suggested food pairings are barbecued lamb chops or bacon cheeseburger. Grilled marinated flank steak is also a great match for the varietal. A full-bodied Malbec can be relished with grilled chicken as well (Quite unlikely for red wine).
Durif
Popularly referred to as Petite Sirah or Durif wines are intensely colored and generally full-bodied. Australia accounts for the majority of its production, especially the Rutherglen region known for producing world-class Durif wines. Also used to craft sparkling wines, the varietal generally reveals flavors of blueberry, blackberry, plum and chocolate. Ideally served at a cooler temperature, the red makes a perfect match for barbecue. You may pair it with cheesy burgers, grilled or barbecued steak, or game dishes.
Barbera
The most food-friendly wine, as quoted by various wine critics, Barbera is an Italian red wine that goes with a variety of foods. Commonly grown in warm-climate wine regions like McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills and Mudgee, it's a light-bodied drink revealing strawberry and sour cherry flavors along with hints of oak. The bright acidity of Barbera complements rich and fatty foods like blue cheeseburgers or barbecued ribs or pizza on the grill.
Apart from the aforementioned, other reds like Pinot Noir and Merlot are also among some of the widely-consumed varietals, making for a great accompaniment to barbecued foods. Pick your favorite to enjoy with friends, family or coworkers at the next backyard BBQ party.
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