There’s nothing quite like the perfect combo of a juicy steak and a smooth glass of wine. But the big question is: what wine goes with steak? The truth is, not all wines pair the same way with every cut of meat.
A rich, fatty ribeye calls for something bold and full-bodied, while a lean filet mignon pairs better with something lighter and more elegant. In this guide, we’ll break down which wines go best with each type of steak, why they work so well together, and share a few tips for picking the perfect bottle for your next dinner.
The Best Wine Pairings for Every Type of Steak
There’s something magical about the way wine and steak complement each other. But with so many cuts of steak and varieties of wine, finding the perfect pairing can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you find the best wine to enjoy with every type of steak:
A. Ribeye & Zinfandel
Ribeye and Zinfandel are truly a match made in heaven. Ribeye is known for its rich, juicy fat content, and Zinfandel’s bold fruitiness and higher alcohol level help cut through that richness beautifully.
The wine’s natural sweetness, combined with its spicy and berry notes, enhances the deep, savory flavor of the steak. Together, they create a balanced bite that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
B. Filet Mignon & Pinot Noir
Filet mignon is the most tender and delicate cut of steak, which means it pairs best with a lighter-bodied wine like Pinot Noir. This wine has low tannins and higher acidity, allowing the subtle flavors of the filet to shine through.
Pinot Noir’s earthy undertones complement the meat’s buttery texture, while its red fruit flavors add a refreshing contrast. It’s an elegant pairing that feels smooth, soft, and perfectly balanced on the palate.
C. New York Strip & Cabernet Sauvignon
A New York strip is firm, meaty, and full of flavor, so it needs a wine that can stand up to its boldness. Take Cabernet Sauvignon as the classic steak companion.
With its strong tannins and dark fruit character, Cabernet enhances the smoky, savory notes of the steak.
Its oaky undertones also bring out the richness of the meat, creating a beautifully balanced pairing where every sip refreshes your taste buds for the next bite.
Several selections for cabernet sauvignon at Minuman.com:
- Casillero del Diablo - Reserva Especial - Cabernet Sauvignon
- Frontera Cabernet Sauvignon
- Anakena - Birdman Cabernet Sauvignon
- Zilzie - Victoria - Cabernet Sauvignon
- Penfolds - Bin 407 - Cabernet Sauvignon
D. Sirloin & Malbec
For a leaner yet flavorful cut like sirloin, Malbec is the perfect match. This Argentine favorite is known for its smooth texture, juicy dark fruit flavors, and spicy finish.
The wine’s fruit-forward taste adds depth to the steak, while its subtle spice mirrors the grilled, smoky edges of the meat. It’s a pairing that feels comforting, hearty, and effortlessly delicious.
E. Porterhouse & Bordeaux Blend
The Porterhouse is a combination of tenderloin and strip in one cut. To match its dual personality, you need a wine with layers and complexity, like a Bordeaux blend.
These wines typically mix Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, bringing bold tannins, balanced acidity, and rich flavors that elevate both sides of the steak.
The result is a pairing that’s luxurious and multi-dimensional, with every sip highlighting a new note in the meat’s flavor.
Can You Drink White Wine with Steak?
Absolutely yes! The old belief that only red wine pairs with steak is a total myth. Certain white wines can actually be a perfect match especially with leaner cuts or steaks that are cooked with lighter seasonings and sides.
Chardonnay is a great example. Its rich, buttery texture and hints of oak and vanilla beautifully complement tender cuts like Filet Mignon or Sirloin. The smoothness of a good Chardonnay, such as the Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay, enhances the steak’s natural sweetness without overpowering it.
Sauvignon Blanc, on the other hand, offers a fresh, zesty twist. With its crisp acidity and citrus notes, it pairs wonderfully with herb-seasoned or pan-seared lean steaks. A glass of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, for instance, brings a refreshing contrast to those who prefer a lighter, vibrant pairing.
Tips for Choosing the Right Wine with Steak
Now that you know the best wine pairings for different types of steak, let’s talk about how to make your own perfect match. There’s no strict rulebook — it’s all about finding balance and enhancing the flavors on your plate. These easy tips will guide you in mastering food and wine pairing, helping you pick the right wine for your steak every time.
1. Consider the Cut of Steak
The cut of steak makes a big difference in your wine choice. Leaner cuts like Filet Mignon or Sirloin pair beautifully with wines that have a good balance of acidity and fruit, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Meanwhile, fattier cuts like Ribeye or Tomahawk need bolder wines with strong tannins to cut through the richness and keep things balanced.
2. Think About the Cooking Method
How the steak is cooked can totally change the flavor and, in turn, the wine pairing. Grilled steaks with a smoky, charred edge match well with wines that have some oak influence, like Shiraz or Malbec.
But if your steak is cooked with lighter seasonings or pan-seared to keep things simple, go for something more delicate, like a Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, to keep the flavors in harmony.
3. Pair by Doneness
Believe it or not, the doneness of your steak also affects the best wine match. A rare or medium-rare steak is richer and juicier, making it a great partner for full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon.
A well-done steak, on the other hand, loses some of that juiciness, so it pairs better with slightly lighter wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to keep things balanced and refreshing.
Several selections of sauvignon blanc you can buy at Minuman.com:
- Cloudy Bay - Sauvignon Blanc
- Anakena - Birdman Sauvignon Blanc
- Monkey Puzzle - Sauvignon Blanc
- Black Cottage - Sauvignon Blanc
- Mud House Sauvignon Blanc
4. Consider the Sides
Don’t forget about the sides — they can totally change the flavor experience. Creamy sauces or buttery mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with complex whites or reds with smooth acidity, like Pinot Noir.
If you’re going for grilled veggies or a salad on the side, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light-bodied Merlot can help tie everything together nicely.
Cheers to Great Pairings and Even Better Dinners!
Finding what wine goes with steak is all about balance and personal taste. The key is to match the intensity of your wine with the richness of your meat. So, next time you fire up the grill or order your favorite steakhouse dish, take a moment to choose a wine that enhances every bite. With the right pairing, every meal feels like a special occasion!
Looking to buy high quality wine online without the hassle of going to a store? At Minuman.com, you can explore a wide selection of premium wines that elevate your wine drinking experience right from the comfort of your home.
Pair your favorite wine with a delicious steak or enjoy it during a relaxing evening, Minuman.com makes it easy and convenient to find the perfect bottle. Make your next wine moment special and remember to order your alcoholic drinks only at Minuman.com!
